As one of the country's leaders, Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon should be keen to avoid bad jokes, especially ones that -- due to a lack of sensitivity -- could hurt the feelings of people in mourning, not to mention embarrass Thailand diplomatically.
Unfortunately, he isn't.
His joke that delicious Thai food might have encouraged terrorists to target the Riverside complex, which houses the DusitD2 hotel, on Tuesday is not just out of place, but a national embarrassment.
It comes at a time when world leaders are showing solidarity for Kenya, which is in mourning and shock after the brutal terror attack that claimed so many innocent lives. As of Thursday, the number of people killed stood at 21.
The attack which sparked a wave of outrage abroad, from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to the European Union, is the second-largest episode of carnage for the East African country's capital after the 2013 Westgate terror that left 67 dead. The extremist al-Shabaab militant group claimed responsibility for both. Sporadic attacks have also taken place outside Nairobi in past years.
Kenya's online media outlets have been quick to play up the general's "delicious" comments.
Writing on Kenyans.co.ke, Michael Musyoka said Gen Prawit's remark shows an "insouciant attitude".
The Kenyan reporter highlighted the deputy prime minister's unpleasant statement that it was "good enough" that no Thai nationals were killed in the attack, citing reports by news site Khaosod English.
The report, which was picked up by other online media, emerged as the most-viewed item for a short period Thursday. It also drew negative comments from netizens in Kenya as well as Thailand.
In a further development, it is reported that Gen Prawit is extremely upset, not with himself, but with the Thai media for reporting on what he meant to be a joke.
The Defence Ministry spokesman said that Gen Prawit "vowed not to give an interview ever again".
His stern reaction reflects a lack of remorse, which is unfortunate. Gen Prawit should know that in a time of such sadness, no one in his right mind should crack such a joke. Other world leaders have come out in force to condemn the brutal attack.
There are reports that Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and Foreign Affairs Minister Don Pramudwinai have sent their condolences to the Kenyan government.
Gen Prawit is no different to many Thai leaders who, when they make a verbal slip, start looking for scapegoats.
He was quick to blame the Thai media for reporting his shameful statement without thinking that, as one of the country's leaders, he is supposed to act more appropriately by minding his tongue, especially when in front of the cameras. Maturity is part of leadership.
Gen Prawit may claim that he, given his military background, is not good with words, but there is a proverb in both Thai and English that silence is golden. Instead of blaming others, he should know that he has no one to blame but himself.
But it's too late now to remain silent. The deputy prime minister should realise he owes those who lost their loved ones an apology.
