Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra Removed from Office Over Ethics Violation

Thailand's Constitutional Court has dismissed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office, citing ethical misconduct stemming from a leaked phone conversation with Cambodia's former leader, Hun Sen. The court's 6-3 ruling on August 29, 2025, concluded that Paetongtarn prioritized personal relationships over national interests during the call, which occurred amid escalating border tensions between the two nations.

In the leaked conversation, Paetongtarn referred to Hun Sen as "uncle" and criticized a senior Thai army commander, actions the court deemed damaging to Thailand's reputation and public confidence.

Paetongtarn, daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is the fifth Shinawatra-backed leader to be removed from office by the judiciary or military in the past two decades. Her dismissal has led to the dissolution of the current cabinet, with Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai serving as caretaker until a new prime minister is appointed.

The ruling has intensified political instability in Thailand, with the Pheu Thai party facing challenges in maintaining its coalition government. Potential successors include Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, and Chaikasem Nitisiri, a former attorney general and Pheu Thai candidate.

The court's decision underscores ongoing tensions between the Shinawatra political dynasty and Thailand's conservative establishment, highlighting the judiciary's influential role in the nation's political landscape.