Thai PM Removed After Leaked Call Fuels Cambodia Border Row

A Thai court has ousted suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, citing an ethics breach involving a phone call with Cambodia's former leader. This decision has intensified Thailand's political instability. Paetongtarn, from the influential Shinawatra family, became the youngest prime minister in August 2024. Her tenure lasted just a year before the Constitutional Court ruled she was unfit for office.

The controversial phone call, recorded on June 15 amid rising border tensions with Cambodia, featured Paetongtarn referring to former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen as "uncle." She also criticised her own military's actions during border clashes that resulted in a Cambodian soldier's death. Her remarks included offering assistance to Hun Sen, which became central to the case against her.

Political Turmoil and Family Legacy

Paetongtarn apologised to the Thai public for any discomfort caused by her comments, explaining they were part of a negotiation strategy to ease tensions. Following the court's ruling, she expressed gratitude to her country at a news conference. "This is another time that the court's decision has created a sudden political change," she stated.

The court's decision adds another chapter to Thailand's turbulent political landscape, where change advocates often clash with the establishment. The establishment includes military, royalist, and business elites. In recent years, two prime ministers have been removed from office and an election-winning party dissolved.

Impact on Shinawatra Family and Pheu Thai Party

Paetongtarn is not the first in her family to face such challenges. Her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra was ousted before a military coup in 2014, while her father Thaksin Shinawatra went into self-imposed exile in 2006 after his government was toppled by the military. Her uncle Somchai Wongsawat briefly served as prime minister in 2008 but was removed by a court ruling.

The verdict against Paetongtarn could jeopardise the Shinawatra family's political influence. They have dominated Thai politics for over two decades but now face uncertainty as internal coalition conflicts and delayed policy rollouts weaken their governance amid economic struggles.

Future Prospects and Coalition Challenges

With Paetongtarn's removal, her cabinet will also be dismissed. Ministers will serve in acting roles until a new prime minister is elected by parliament. Pheu Thai must nominate a new candidate for prime minister. Their last option is former justice minister Chaikasem Nitisiri, though it's unclear if he would secure enough votes from coalition partners.

Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul resigned as deputy prime minister and interior minister over Paetongtarn's leaked call. If Pheu Thai fails to present a new prime ministerial candidate, it may lead to new elections with Pheu Thai weakened.

Some analysts believe the establishment might still prefer Thaksin-backed Pheu Thai as it acts as a buffer against the People's Party. The People's Party is seen as disruptive due to its reformist agenda and high approval ratings.

The leaked call further damaged Pheu Thai's declining popularity. Now that Paetongtarn is out of office, Pheu Thai faces significant challenges ahead in maintaining its political standing amidst ongoing turmoil.