Thailand’s PM Paetongtarn Suspended by Court Over Leaked Call With Hun Sen

The court announced it had unanimously accepted a petition accusing Paetongtarn of violating ethical standards and voted 7-2 to suspend her from her duties while the investigation proceeds.

The leaked call, made during sensitive diplomatic efforts to address a border clash with Cambodia on May 28, has stirred widespread controversy. One Cambodian soldier was killed during the armed confrontation, heightening regional tensions. Critics say Paetongtarn’s tone in the call showed undue deference to Hun Sen and disrespect toward a Thai military commander, prompting allegations of national disloyalty.

The scandal has triggered mass protests in Bangkok, with thousands of conservative and nationalist demonstrators taking to the streets on Saturday, June 28, demanding her resignation.

Speaking on Monday, Paetongtarn said she would cooperate fully with the legal process, despite concerns about political interference. “If you ask me whether I’m worried, I am,” she told reporters. “But I will respect the court’s process.”

Earlier the same day, King Maha Vajiralongkorn formally approved a Cabinet reshuffle, following the exit of the Bhumjaithai Party from the ruling coalition in protest over the phone call. Former Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, the Bhumjaithai Party leader, was replaced by Phumtham Wechayachai, who also assumes the post of Interior Minister.

The Defense Ministry post was left vacant, with the Deputy Minister appointed to serve in an acting capacity.

Despite her suspension, Paetongtarn was named Minister of Culture, continuing her long-standing push to promote Thailand’s soft power through food, culture, and sports. Before taking office as Prime Minister, she was known for championing Thai cultural diplomacy on the global stage.

The Prime Minister also faces a separate ethics probe by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), which could result in her permanent removal from office if wrongdoing is found.

This marks the second consecutive year a Thai prime minister has faced removal through ethics rulings. Last year, her predecessor was ousted by the Constitutional Court in a similar case.

Thailand’s courts, particularly the Constitutional Court and independent agencies like the Election Commission, have frequently played a decisive role in removing elected leaders, leading to criticism that judicial powers are being used to protect entrenched royalist interests.