Ever since it was installed by the military last year, Thailand's interim government has struggled to put a positive spin on its often creaky performance. It often seems to be a losing battle, at least on the world stage beyond the reach of the junta's censors.
Some observers put the blame for the hapless government on the political forces swirling in the wake of the bloodless September 19 coup, which pulled the plug on a fragile democracy. Others cite the mess left behind by ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
Information Communications and Technology Minister Sitthichai Pookaiyaudom - the man who banned YouTube - has his own theory for why the administration is floundering.
In his view, the cabinet is honest, earnest - and complete amateurs in the ways of modern politics. Refreshingly, the wealthy academic, avowed atheist and avid inventor who had no prior experience in government is hardest on himself.
Taking charge of a ministry tasked with internet regulation and telecoms reform has been a steep learning curve for the minister. He admits having fallen asleep in cabinet meetings and says he longs for academia.
'Truly speaking, I'm a terrible minister. I have no competency at all. I can't stand being a politician,' he recently told an audience at the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand. Not that he wants to be one. 'All politicians are crooks,' he said, grinning.
Such honesty has become Dr Sitthichai's calling card, and a reminder that not everyone has lost their sense of humour over Thailand's political woes.