Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra Suspended Amid Ethics Probe

Deputy PM to serve in caretaker role as court reviews case over leaked Hun Sen call

BANGKOK –
Thailand’s Constitutional Court on Tuesday suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from her duties, pending a decision on a petition seeking her dismissal over an alleged ethics breach. The move deepens the crisis surrounding the ruling Pheu Thai Party and adds pressure to an already fragile coalition government.

The court unanimously accepted the case filed by 36 senators, accusing Paetongtarn of violating ethical standards and the Thai Constitution after the leak of a sensitive phone call with Cambodia’s former Prime Minister Hun Sen.

The court has considered the petition and unanimously accepts the case for consideration, the court’s statement read.

In the interim, Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit will assume the role of caretaker prime minister, while Paetongtarn will continue to serve in the cabinet as culture minister following a recent reshuffle.

Political Turmoil and Coalition Tensions

The June 15 leaked phone conversation—intended to de-escalate border tensions—sparked domestic uproar, particularly after Paetongtarn was heard criticizing a top Thai army commander and appearing deferential to Hun Sen, a move that angered both the military and the public.

A key coalition partner has since exited the alliance, and a no-confidence vote is now expected, with protest groups demanding her resignation.

Dynasty Under Pressure

Paetongtarn, just 10 months into her premiership, is the daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential and controversial former prime minister. The Shinawatra dynasty, long dominant in Thai politics, is now facing legal and political headwinds on multiple fronts.

Thaksin, 75, appeared Tuesday in Bangkok’s Criminal Court to face lese majeste charges over a 2015 interview. He denies the allegations. The Supreme Court is also reviewing his hospital-based detention during his parole, raising the possibility of a return to jail.

Falling Popularity and Economic Struggles

A recent poll conducted from June 19–25 showed Paetongtarn’s approval rating plummeting to just 9.2%, down from 30.9% in March, amid frustrations over the faltering economy and perceived missteps in governance.