BANGKOK, August 29, 2025 — Thailand’s Constitutional Court has officially removed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office, ending her premiership after only one year. The landmark ruling, delivered in a 6–3 decision, cited an ethical violation linked to a leaked phone call with Cambodia’s former leader, Hun Sen.
Thailand’s Constitutional Court dismissed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office for an ethics violation after only a year in power, dealing another crushing blow to the Shinawatra political dynasty https://t.co/dDANVA9pdY pic.twitter.com/90V9VURUtd
— Reuters (@Reuters) August 29, 2025
Why She Was Sacked
- Compromising Conduct: In the June 15, 2025, audio recording, Paetongtarn addressed Hun Sen as “uncle.” Critics argued this reflected a prioritization of personal ties over national interests at a time of heightened Thai-Cambodian border tensions.
- Criticism of Military Leadership: She allegedly referred to a senior Thai army general as an “opponent.” Given the Thai military’s entrenched role in politics, the remark was deemed a serious breach of ethical standards and disrespect toward a powerful institution.
- Court’s Finding: The judges ruled her conduct “seriously violated” ethical duties expected of a prime minister, concluding she acted in line with Cambodian interests due to a personal relationship. The court stated this undermined Thailand’s reputation and political stability.
Political Context
The decision marks the latest chapter in the long-running struggle between Thailand’s judiciary, military, and the Shinawatra dynasty. Paetongtarn, daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and niece of Yingluck Shinawatra, is now the fifth Thai premier removed by the courts since 2008. Her immediate predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, was also ousted in a similar judicial intervention.
What’s Next
With Paetongtarn’s removal, Thailand faces renewed political uncertainty. Analysts warn the ruling may deepen divisions between pro-establishment forces and supporters of the Shinawatra family, who continue to dominate Thailand’s electoral politics but often clash with the military-backed establishment.
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