NEW DELHI: Thailand’s political landscape was rocked on Tuesday as the Constitutional Court suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from her duties following the acceptance of a petition alleging serious ethical violations. The decision comes amid growing unrest and backlash over a leaked phone conversation between the Prime Minister and former Cambodian leader Hun Sen.
The scandal erupted after an audio clip surfaced online in mid-June, allegedly featuring Paetongtarn referring to Hun Sen as "uncle" and offering private assurances regarding cross-border concerns. In the same call, she criticized a top Thai military official, an act that many critics say undermines national security and disrespects Thailand’s sovereignty.
Thirty-six senators filed the petition accusing the Prime Minister of violating constitutional provisions that mandate government officials uphold integrity, dignity, and loyalty to the nation.
The Constitutional Court announced the suspension while it deliberates the case. Paetongtarn now has 15 days to respond to the allegations. Although she has not resigned, Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit has been named acting prime minister and will assume her duties on an interim basis.
In a public statement, Paetongtarn described the phone call as "misunderstood" and argued that it was part of a necessary diplomatic effort to ease tensions with Cambodia. However, her explanation has done little to calm critics or quell the street protests.
The scandal has plunged the country into fresh political turmoil. Over the past week, thousands of demonstrators have gathered in Bangkok demanding her resignation, and her approval ratings have seen a sharp decline. Coalition partners are also reportedly reconsidering their support for the Pheu Thai-led government.
Opposition leaders argue that the leaked conversation confirms that Paetongtarn is unfit to lead, while her supporters claim that the suspension is politically motivated and part of a broader effort to dismantle the longstanding Shinawatra influence in Thai politics.
The case is expected to dominate Thai politics in the coming weeks. If found guilty of breaching ethical standards, Paetongtarn could face permanent removal from office and possibly a long-term ban from political activity. The National Anti-Corruption Commission has also initiated a parallel investigation into potential legal breaches stemming from the incident.
Observers warn that Thailand could be on the brink of further instability, echoing past crises that followed similar court actions against former Shinawatra-led administrations.
