Bangkok – In a dramatic political development, Thailand’s Constitutional Court has ordered the immediate suspension of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from her duties following allegations of ethical misconduct stemming from a leaked phone conversation with Cambodian leader Hun Sen. The court’s decision, delivered by a 7-2 majority, comes after a petition filed by 36 senators accusing the premier of breaching official conduct in her diplomatic dealings.

Thailand seeks legal action against Hun Sen over leaked recording

The controversy erupted on June 18 when an audio clip surfaced featuring a private discussion between Paetongtarn and Hun Sen, which was later confirmed authentic by the prime minister herself. While Paetongtarn defended the call as an attempt at “soft diplomacy” to preserve bilateral peace and Thai sovereignty, critics argue the exchange revealed improper negotiation tactics and a lack of transparency in foreign policy.

The court has given the embattled leader 15 days to formally respond to the allegations, which include claims that she bypassed diplomatic protocols, displayed undue deference to Cambodia, and undermined Thailand’s negotiating position. Senators further allege her approach to military leadership – described as adversarial in the complaint – violated ethical governance standards.

Paetongtarn Shinawatra issued a statement after being suspended from duty by the Constitutional Court pending its consideration of the case involving her controversial phone conversation with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen. pic.twitter.com/y29obUH05G

— Bangkok Post (@BangkokPostNews) July 1, 2025

Political analysts suggest the suspension could trigger cabinet reshuffles and deepen existing tensions between the Shinawatra-aligned government and its conservative opponents. The ruling Pheu Thai Party has yet to announce interim leadership plans as the nation awaits the court’s final verdict.

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This marks Thailand’s most significant political crisis since the 2023 elections, with observers warning of potential street protests from both government supporters and reform advocates. International attention remains focused on whether the suspension will affect ongoing border negotiations with Cambodia, a historically sensitive bilateral issue.

-Thailand News (TN)