Thai Prime Minister Dismissed Over Ethics Violation in Leaked Call with Cambodian Leader

Thailand's Constitutional Court has dismissed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra after ruling she violated ethics rules during a phone call with Cambodia’s former leader Hun Sen. In a 6-3 decision, the court found that Paetongtarn's conduct in the June 15 call compromised Thai national interests by showing alignment with Cambodia and criticizing a Thai army general. The call, leaked by Hun Sen, occurred shortly before a deadly five-day border conflict erupted, resulting in dozens of deaths and over 260,000 displaced.

Paetongtarn, 39, argued her informal tone was a negotiation tactic and denied harming national security. Her dismissal marks another political setback for the Shinawatra family, which has seen multiple members — including her father Thaksin and aunt Yingluck — removed from office prematurely. The ruling weakens her Pheu Thai-led coalition, especially after the Bhumjaithai Party withdrew support.

Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is serving in a caretaker role until Parliament selects a new leader. The political turmoil, exacerbated by economic challenges and longstanding polarization, highlights persistent instability in Thai governance, often marked by court interventions and military influence.