Thailand Protests: PM Faces Pressure Over Cambodia Dispute

BANGKOK, June 28 —
Hundreds of people gathered in Bangkok on Saturday demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The protest comes amid growing tensions between Thailand and Cambodia and a scandal involving a leaked phone call.

The rally at Victory Monument was the biggest anti-government protest since Paetongtarn’s Pheu Thai party came to power last year. The group behind the protest, United Force of the Land, includes nationalist activists who have opposed the Shinawatra family for nearly two decades.

Photo credit: Government House of Thailand/Handout via Reuters

Leaked Call Fuels Anger
The unrest began after a phone call was leaked in which Paetongtarn spoke with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. In the call, she appeared to criticize a top Thai military officer. This upset many in Thailand, where the military holds strong political influence.

Paetongtarn later apologized but has faced strong backlash. Former coalition partner, the Bhumjaithai Party, pulled out of the government, citing threats to Thai sovereignty.

The leaked call also triggered investigations. A group of senators has asked the Constitutional Court and the national anti-graft body to review her actions. These investigations could lead to her removal.

Possible No-Confidence Vote
With her coalition now weakened, Paetongtarn could face a no-confidence vote when parliament returns next week.

"I respect the people's right to protest," she said. "I have asked authorities to keep the gathering peaceful. I will not retaliate."

Hun Sen, once seen as an ally of the Shinawatras, strongly criticized Paetongtarn in a recent speech, even calling for a new government in Thailand.

The Thai Foreign Ministry responded by calling his remarks "extraordinary" and emphasized that Thailand wants to solve the issue through diplomacy.

What’s at Stake?
Political tensions are growing just as Thailand struggles to recover from economic slowdown. More protests, or legal actions against the prime minister, could lead to more instability in the weeks ahead.

Fact Box: Key Points