Thailand’s Constitutional Court has ordered the removal of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from her post, effective immediately, citing a violation of constitutional provisions. The ruling was announced on Thursday, August 29, following a period of suspension.
Ms. Shinawatra, who became Thailand’s youngest prime minister in August 2024, is the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and the current leader of the Pheu Thai Party. She will hold a press conference later on Thursday.
The case against her stemmed from a controversial phone call recording. In June, a recording of a private conversation between Ms. Shinawatra and former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen was leaked. In the call, she was heard referring to Mr. Hun Sen as “uncle” and asking for his assistance with border issues, while also criticizing a Thai army commander.
Mr. Hun Sen stated that the recording was made for “transparency” and was shared with around 80 high-ranking Cambodian officials. He speculated that someone who disliked the Thai Prime Minister may have leaked the audio. Ms. Shinawatra later apologized, explaining that the call was private and intended to ease border tensions.
Following the leak, 36 senators petitioned the Constitutional Court to investigate whether Ms. Shinawatra had violated the constitution and political ethics. On July 1, the court accepted the petition and suspended her from her duties. She was subsequently sworn in as Minister of Culture on July 3.
Ms. Shinawatra testified before the court on August 21 and submitted her final statement on August 25.
Local media reports have speculated that her removal could lead to a government reshuffle or a snap election. Analysts believe the series of legal challenges against her and her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, will significantly influence Thailand’s political landscape. Continued political instability could hinder economic recovery and undermine foreign investor confidence.