Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was officially removed from office on August 29, 2025, by the Constitutional Court after a breach of ethics stemming from a leaked phone call with Cambodia’s former leader, Hun Sen. This event marks a pivotal moment in Thai politics, revealing deeply rooted tensions between political factions and national security imperatives.
Background of the Incident
In June 2025, a telephone conversation between Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Hun Sen was leaked publicly by Cambodia. During this call, Paetongtarn:
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Referred to Hun Sen as “uncle,” signaling a conciliatory tone.
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Criticized a senior Thai military official amid rising border disputes.
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Discussed ways to de-escalate tensions following a violent border clash.
The leak intensified nationalist outrage in Thailand, casting doubt on Paetongtarn’s commitment to national interests and undermining military authority.
Key Developments and Court Decision
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Border conflict incident | May 2025 | Border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia result in 38 deaths and 260,000 displaced. |
| Leaked phone call | June 2025 | Audio of Paetongtarn’s conversation with Hun Sen released, sparking controversy. |
| Suspension from PM duties | July 1, 2025 | Paetongtarn suspended; deputy prime minister assumes duties. |
| Constitutional Court ruling | August 29, 2025 | Court votes 6-3 to remove Paetongtarn from office for ethics violations. |
Court Findings
The Constitutional Court ruled that Paetongtarn’s actions violated ethical standards expected from the country’s leader:
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Breach of Ethics: Her words showed a lack of honesty and integrity.
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Harm to National Security: The call was judged to undermine Thailand’s sovereignty and military.
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Office Dignity: Her conduct was considered damaging to the prime ministerial role’s dignity.
Political Impact
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Government Instability: Paetongtarn’s coalition partner, the Bhumjaithai Party, withdrew support, weakening the parliamentary majority.
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Leadership Vacuum: Deputy Prime Minister Umth Wechachai temporarily leads the government.
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Potential Elections: The likelihood of new elections rises if a new prime minister cannot secure parliamentary approval.
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Shinawatra Family Influence: The ruling weakens the political standing of the Shinawatra family, whose members have repeatedly clashed with military and royalist factions.
Context: Thailand-Cambodia Border Conflict
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Dispute Origin | Death of Cambodian soldier in May 2025 igniting border clashes |
| Casualties | At least 38 killed |
| Displaced People | Over 260,000 displaced due to fighting |
| Diplomatic Challenge | Paetongtarn’s call aimed to de-escalate tensions |
Paetongtarn’s Response
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Expressed regret for the call’s leak and controversy.
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Claimed efforts aimed at peace and conflict prevention.
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Reaffirmed loyalty to Thailand’s monarchy, religion, and nation.
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Faced removal from all government positions following the court ruling.
Summary
Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s removal underscores the precarious balance within Thailand’s political landscape, where nationalist, military, and royalist interests often clash with populist politicians. The leaked phone call and its fallout expose vulnerabilities in both domestic governance and foreign diplomacy, particularly in sensitive border disputes. Moving forward, Thailand faces challenges in achieving political stability and preserving national sovereignty amidst internal divisions and external pressures.