BANGKOK (AP) — In a dramatic display of political unrest, hundreds of protesters converged on Bangkok’s streets on Saturday, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The protests were sparked by a leaked phone conversation with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, which has intensified the already simmering political turmoil in Thailand.
The controversy centers on Paetongtarn’s handling of a border dispute with Cambodia that escalated into an armed confrontation on May 28, resulting in the death of a Cambodian soldier. The leaked call, in which Paetongtarn allegedly advised Hun Sen not to heed a Thai opponent, has led to multiple investigations that could potentially unseat her from power.
Backdrop of Tensions
The phone call controversy has fueled public outrage, particularly because it is believed to reference a regional Thai army commander critical of Cambodia’s actions in the border dispute. Protesters, waving national flags and banners, occupied the streets around the Victory Monument in central Bangkok, voicing their dissatisfaction with the government.
Among the demonstrators were prominent figures from the “Yellow Shirts,” a group known for their loyalty to the Thai monarchy and opposition to Paetongtarn’s father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The Yellow Shirts have a history of instigating protests that led to military coups in 2006 and 2014, toppling the governments of Thaksin and Paetongtarn’s aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra.
Hun Sen’s Response and Historical Context
Meanwhile, Hun Sen, now the Cambodian Senate president, has condemned the Thai military’s actions as an illegal incursion into Cambodian territory. Speaking at the 74th anniversary of the Cambodian People’s Party, he emphasized Cambodia’s desire for peace and cooperation, despite historical grievances.
“This poor Cambodia has suffered from foreign invasion, war, and genocide… but now Cambodia has risen on an equal face with other countries,” Hun Sen declared.
The border tensions are rooted in a long-standing territorial dispute, notably involving the Preah Vihear temple. The International Court of Justice awarded the contested area to Cambodia in 1962, a decision reaffirmed in 2013 during Yingluck Shinawatra’s tenure as prime minister.
Political Fallout and Investigations
The scandal has fractured Paetongtarn’s coalition government, resulting in the departure of the Bhumjaithai Party, which had been a key partner. The coalition now holds a slim majority in the 500-seat house, with only 255 seats. This political instability is compounded by investigations from both the Constitutional Court and the national anti-corruption agency, which could lead to Paetongtarn’s removal.
Sarote Phuengrampan, secretary-general of the Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission, confirmed the investigation into Paetongtarn for ethical breaches related to the phone call. Although no timeline has been given, the Constitutional Court could suspend her pending the investigation.
“It was clear from the phone call that I had nothing to gain from it, and I also didn’t cause any damage to the country,” Paetongtarn stated, expressing her readiness to defend her case.
Voices from the Protest
Among the protesters, Tasana Soma, a 60-year-old retiree, criticized the prime minister’s handling of the situation, attributing the conflict to a weak government. “The prime minister must resign to take responsibility for her cluelessness,” she said.
Tatchakorn Srisuwan, a 47-year-old guide, traveled from Surat Thani to join the protests, expressing his dissatisfaction with Paetongtarn’s perceived leniency towards Cambodia. “We don’t want to invade anyone, but we want to say that we are Thai and we want to protect Thailand’s sovereignty,” he declared.
The unfolding political drama in Thailand underscores the complex interplay of historical grievances, national pride, and political maneuvering. With investigations underway and public sentiment on edge, the coming weeks could prove pivotal for Paetongtarn’s leadership and the stability of her government.
