Thailand Constitutional Court suspended Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on July 1, 2025. After a leaked 17‑minute phone conversation with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen ignited accusations of undermining national sovereignty.
Today’s court ruling passed 7–2 follows a complaint by 36 senators. Claiming she breached ethical standards by calling Hun Sen “uncle,” urging him to ignore “the opposing side” in Thailand (referring to a Thai military general), and appearing unduly deferential.
Political Fallout and National Outcry Due to Thai Prime Minister
- Coalition breakdown: The conservative Bhumjaithai Party, Thailand’s second‑largest coalition partner, exited the government on June 18. Citing the leaked call as damaging to national and military dignity.
- Public protests: Thousands rallied in Bangkok on June 28, demanding her resignation and accusing her of prioritizing family loyalty over sovereignty.
- Approval collapse: A June poll tracked her popularity plummeting from ~31 % in March to just 9.2 % .
Defense Strategy & Interim Leadership
Paetongtarn apologized on June 19, clarifying that her tone was part of a diplomatic strategy to avert military escalation she had addressed Hun Sen through translation, emphasizing peace. She has 15 days to mount a legal defense, during which Deputy PM Suriya Juangroongruangkit will act as caretaker.
Larger Implications for Thai Politics
Paetongtarn, daughter of former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, is the third Shinawatra to be suspended by the courts echoing the removals of her father (2006) and aunt Yingluck (2014). This episode highlights the constitutional court’s enduring power and the ongoing tug‑of‑war among royalist, military, and populist factions. It also underscores friction in Thailand–Cambodia relations following a border clash that resulted in one Cambodian soldier’s death on May 28.
What’s Next?
A permanent ruling from the court could unseat Paetongtarn for good. Tensions are rising: Parliament reconvenes soon, and a no‑confidence vote is pending. Meanwhile, analysts warn that an emerging power vacuum or refusal to comply—might open the door to a military intervention.
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