Thai Prime Minister Faces Crisis After Leaked Call
A leaked phone call between **Paetongtarn Shinawatra**, Thailand’s prime minister, and former Cambodian leader Hun Sen has sparked political turmoil, threatening to fracture her ruling coalition. The revelation has ignited public anger and prompted calls for her resignation, destabilizing the nation’s fragile political landscape.
Apologies and Fallout
After the audio recording’s release, **Paetongtarn** issued an apology during a press conference attended by military officials and key figures from her Pheu Thai party. She expressed regret for the leaked conversation, which has stirred considerable public discontent.
The controversial call involved discussions between **Paetongtarn** and **Hun Sen**, who still wields considerable influence in Cambodia despite no longer being in office. During their exchange, **Paetongtarn** addressed **Hun Sen** as “uncle” and referred to a Thai army commander as her “opponent.”
The Thai foreign ministry responded by summoning the Cambodian ambassador to deliver a formal complaint about the leak. This incident has further strained relations between the two nations.
Coalition Troubles and Market Impact
The Bhumjaithai party, a key coalition partner, withdrew its support, citing that **Paetongtarn**’s actions had damaged the country and the army’s reputation. This defection left **Paetongtarn** with a precarious hold on power.
The crisis also triggered a 2.4% drop in the Thai stock market. However, by evening, **Paetongtarn**, the daughter of ex-PM **Thaksin Shinawatra**, seemed to have gained some reprieve, as another coalition party signaled its intention to remain.
Military’s Role and Historical Context
Thailand’s military, historically a significant political force, issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to “democratic principles and national sovereignty protection.” The army chief, Gen. **Pana Claewplod**, stressed the importance of national unity.
Thailand has seen a dozen coups since the end of the absolute monarchy in 1932, prompting speculation that the current situation could lead to another. Losing another coalition partner would likely mean the end of her government, potentially leading to an election or the formation of a new coalition. The country’s political instability comes at a time when it is struggling to boost its economy. Thailand’s economic growth forecast for 2024 is 2.7% (IMF, 2024).
The opposition People’s Party, which secured the most seats in the 2023 election but was prevented from forming a government, urged **Paetongtarn** to call for a new election. Additionally, the Palang Pracharath party labeled **Paetongtarn** as weak and inexperienced.
Hundreds of protesters gathered outside Government House, many veterans of past anti-Thaksin demonstrations, demanding **Paetongtarn**’s resignation.
Future Uncertain
The 38-year-old **Paetongtarn** took office in August 2024, heading an uneasy coalition comprised of the Pheu Thai party and several conservative, pro-military groups. The future of her government hangs in the balance as she navigates the fallout from the leaked phone call and the resulting political tensions.
