BANGKOK – Thailand’s Constitutional Court will deliver its verdict on August 29 regarding suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s leaked phone conversation with Cambodian leader Hun Sen, a case that has sparked allegations of ethical misconduct and divided political opinion.

Thai PM Confirms Authenticity of Leaked Call With Cambodia’s Hun Sen Amid Border Tensions

The controversy stems from a recorded private call—leaked by Hun Sen’s office—in which Paetongtarn referred to Thailand’s Second Army Region commander as “the opposition” who sought to bolster his own image. She also told Hun Sen she was “willing to do anything” he requested, prompting accusations of undue deference to Cambodia.

A group of 36 senators petitioned the court, arguing that the conversation revealed gross ethical violations, including failure to uphold Thai sovereignty and alleged collusion with Cambodia. The court accepted the case and suspended Paetongtarn from her duties pending its ruling.

“Will Paetongtarn Shinawatra survive the Constitutional Court’s ruling on her audio tape conversing with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen? By @PravitRhttps://t.co/I4RNYQb4TH #Thailand #Paetongtarn #ConstitutionalCourt #อุ๊งอิ๊ง #ศาลรัฐธรรมนูญ

— Khaosod English (@KhaosodEnglish) August 13, 2025

During a press conference, Paetongtarn acknowledged the recording’s authenticity but defended the call as a private diplomatic effort to maintain peace. She insisted her remarks were misconstrued and that she acted in Thailand’s best interests.

The scandal has further strained relations between the Shinawatra family and Hun Sen, with Paetongtarn’s father, Thaksin Shinawatra, publicly severing his long-standing friendship with the Cambodian leader.

Paetongtarn Shinawatra Links Thai-Cambodian Conflict to Call Scam Crackdown Snub

The upcoming ruling could have major political repercussions, potentially determining Paetongtarn’s eligibility to remain in office.

-Thailand News (TN)