If I hadn't been keeping a close eye on the political news every day, I would have mistakenly assumed -- from watching last Friday's televised account -- that Prayut Chan-o-cha, who has been suspended from his duties as prime minister by the charter court since Aug 24, has already returned to carry out his duties at Government House.
On Friday, Gen Prayut, working in his continued capacity as defence minister, was seen visiting flood-hit communities in Rayong province.
"As defence minister, I am more concerned about the plight of people [suffering from floods]," he told the media during an inspection trip there. He was seen taking selfies with villagers and tasting local snacks. His supporters were vocal in their moral support, affectionately using his nickname as they chanted: "Uncle Tu ... Keep fighting!"
