Thailand PM Ousted After Leaked Phone Call Scandal With Cambodian Leader

A Thai court has officially removed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office following a controversial leaked phone call with Cambodia’s former leader, sparking fresh political turmoil in Thailand. The Constitutional Court ruled in a 6-3 decision that Paetongtarn violated ethical standards outlined by the Thai constitution, deeming her unqualified to hold the premiership. This decision abruptly ends her tenure, which lasted only about a year after taking office in early August 2024.

The Phone Call That Sparked Outrage

The controversy centers on a private phone conversation Paetongtarn held on June 15 with Cambodia’s former Prime Minister Hun Sen amid escalating border tensions between the two countries. In the leaked audio, Paetongtarn referred to Hun Sen as "uncle" and appeared to criticize her own military’s handling of the border conflict — which had already resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier. She also reassured Hun Sen that if he needed anything, she would "take care of it," remarks the court flagged as a serious breach of Thailand’s national interests.

The leak ignited nationalist outrage in Thailand, with critics accusing Paetongtarn of undermining the country's pride and security. The border tensions subsequently escalated into a five-day conflict, causing at least 38 casualties and displacing hundreds of thousands. Paetongtarn expressed regret over the fallout, saying her words were meant as a negotiation tactic to ease tensions and not to weaken Thai sovereignty.

Court’s Verdict and Political Impact

The ruling, which was retroactive to her suspension in July, states that Paetongtarn “lacked evident honesty and integrity” and violated crucial ethical norms required for public office. As a result, she and her entire cabinet were dismissed, further destabilizing Thailand’s already fragile political landscape.

Paetongtarn, who is part of the influential Shinawatra family, becomes the fifth prime minister in two decades to be ousted by the judiciary or military intervention. Her family has been a focal point of Thai political struggles, with her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, having been ousted in a military coup in 2006 and later facing imprisonment charges. Her aunt and uncle also served as prime ministers but were removed abruptly amid political turmoil.

Following the decision, Paetongtarn addressed the nation, accepting the court’s ruling with respect and reaffirming her commitment to the country. She urged political factions and citizens alike to work together to ensure stability and prevent abrupt changes in government in the future.

Challenges Ahead for the Shinawatra Camp

Paetongtarn’s dismissal complicates the political future of the Pheu Thai Party, the dominant force associated with the Shinawatra dynasty. The party now faces the unenviable task of selecting a new prime minister from a limited candidate list mandated by the constitution, with prospects appearing uncertain as internal and coalition tensions run high.

The party’s previous prime minister, Srettha Thavisin, was also removed by the Constitutional Court just last year, marking a pattern of judicial interventions that critics say target governments affiliated with the popular Shinawatra family. Many see the court’s moves as part of a broader power struggle between Thailand’s elected progressive leaders and entrenched conservative, royalist, and military elites.

Broader Implications for Thai Politics

This latest political upheaval underscores the ongoing volatility in Thailand’s democratic institutions and the powerful role the judiciary continues to play in shaping the country’s leadership. Over the past 20 years, Thailand has witnessed multiple prime ministers removed by court rulings or military coups, as well as frequent party dissolutions, fostering a cycle of instability.

With Paetongtarn’s exit, the country enters another uncertain phase with no clear timeline for appointing her successor. The situation raises questions about Thailand’s political direction and whether reforms to the judiciary or governance structures may be necessary to ensure stability and democratic continuity.

Looking Forward

Despite her removal, Paetongtarn has pledged to continue contributing to Thailand’s future in other ways, expressing pride in her service and gratitude for public support. Meanwhile, her family remains influential behind the scenes, with Thaksin Shinawatra expected to play a key role in negotiations to keep the Pheu Thai Party relevant.

For the Thai people, the unfolding events are a reminder of the country’s complex blend of democratic aspirations, royalist traditions, and military power struggles — a dynamic that will continue to define the nation’s political landscape in the years ahead.