World

Thai court suspends PM Shinawatra over leaked phone call

Published: 15:36, 1 July 2025

Thailand's Constitutional Court on Tuesday ordered the suspension of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from her duties. This decision comes as the court reviews a case that could lead to her dismissal, significantly intensifying the pressure on a government already struggling on several fronts.

The court chose to take up a petition filed by 36 senators. These senators accuse Paetongtarn of dishonesty and violating ethical standards, claiming her actions breach the constitution. Their allegations stem from a leaked telephone conversation between Shinawatra and Cambodia's powerful former leader, Hun Sen, which had political ramifications.
"The court has considered the petition… and unanimously accepts the case for consideration," an official statement from the court confirmed.
In the interim, Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit will assume the role of caretaker prime minister while the court deliberates on Paetongtarn's case. Shinawatra has 15 days to formally respond to the charges. Notably, she will remain part of the cabinet, having been appointed as the new culture minister following a recent reshuffle.
Tourism Minister and Pheu Thai Party Secretary-General Sorawong Thienthong assured Reuters that "Government work doesn't stop, there is no problem. Suriya will become caretaker prime minister."
The controversy surrounding the leaked call with the seasoned Cambodian politician has sparked widespread domestic outrage. It has also severely weakened Paetongtarn's coalition, leaving it with a razor-thin majority. A crucial party has already deserted the alliance and is expected to soon push for a no-confidence vote in parliament, while various protest groups are demanding the premier's resignation.
The problematic phone call, which occurred on June 15, was reportedly intended to de-escalate growing border tensions with Cambodia. During the conversation, the 38-year-old Paetongtarn allegedly showed excessive deference to Hun Sen and criticized a Thai army commander. This particular action is considered a significant misstep in Thailand, where the military holds considerable influence. Shinawatra has since offered an apology, explaining her remarks as a negotiation tactic.