Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra Faces Removal Over Controversial Phone Call

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra of Thailand is facing removal from office after a leaked phone call with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen sparked widespread public anger. In the call, Shinawatra referred to Hun Sen as “uncle” and criticized a Thai military commander, which led to accusations of inappropriate conduct and a breach of national security.

The leaked audio recording prompted a petition for her removal, which was reviewed by Thailand’s Constitutional Court. The court has given Shinawatra 15 days to present her defense. During this period, the Deputy Prime Minister will serve as the country’s acting leader.

Third Shinawatra Leader to Lose Power Prematurely
If removed, Shinawatra would become the third politician from the influential Shinawatra family to lose power before completing their term in the last 20 years. The Shinawatra clan has dominated Thai politics for decades, but this latest controversy has further weakened their grip on power.

Cabinet Reshuffle and New Role
Hours before the court’s decision, a cabinet reshuffle was approved, allowing Shinawatra to remain in the government as the Minister of Culture. This move has been seen as an attempt to soften the blow of her potential removal from the prime minister’s office.