The controversy stems from a phone call that took place during diplomatic efforts to resolve a border clash with Cambodia
By Titilope Adako
Thailand’s Constitutional Court has suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office as it investigates allegations of an ethics breach linked to a leaked phone conversation with a senior Cambodian leader.
According to APN News, the court unanimously agreed to admit the petition against her and, in a 7–2 vote, ordered her suspension pending the outcome of the probe.
Paetongtarn has been given 15 days to submit evidence in her defence.
The controversy stems from a phone call that took place during diplomatic efforts to resolve a border clash with Cambodia. The incident, which occurred on May 28, left one Cambodian soldier dead and sparked widespread public protests and formal complaints in Thailand.
Although she has not yet publicly responded to the court’s decision, Paetongtarn said on Monday she would respect the legal process despite her concerns over the disruption of her duties.
Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungruangkit is expected to step in as acting prime minister, though no official confirmation has been made.
Earlier on Tuesday, King Maha Vajiralongkorn approved a Cabinet reshuffle following the departure of the Bhumjaithai Party from Paetongtarn’s coalition government—a move triggered by the leaked phone call scandal.
The reshuffle saw former Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of Bhumjaithai, exit the Cabinet. Paetongtarn took on an additional role as culture minister in the new lineup, stating her intent to promote Thai culture globally. However, it remains uncertain whether she can be sworn into that position given her suspension.
In addition to the court proceedings, Paetongtarn is under investigation by the National Anti-Corruption Commission for another alleged ethics violation an outcome that could also cost her the premiership.
Thailand’s Constitutional Court has previously removed leaders from office over ethics violations and is widely regarded as part of the royalist establishment that often acts against political challengers.
Public anger over the call centres on Paetongtarn’s remarks about a regional military commander and what critics view as an overly conciliatory tone toward Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen during the border crisis.
On Saturday, thousands of conservative and nationalist protesters gathered in central Bangkok demanding her resignation.
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