Politics Thai Leaders Slammed for Inaction on Cambodian Border Incursion

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Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World

 

Political whistleblower Srisuwan Janya has stirred the pot with a formal complaint to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), demanding an inquiry into Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.

 

Srisuwan alleges that the two leaders' lack of action allowed Cambodian soldiers to linger on Thai soil for over a week. The incursion, according to Srisuwan, began following a skirmish at Chong Bok pass in Ubon Ratchathani province on May 28th, where one Cambodian soldier reportedly met his fate.

 

In the wake of the military clash, Srisuwan contends that both the Prime Minister and Defence Minister continued their ‘talking game,’ focusing on negotiations through the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) rather than taking concrete steps to eject the Cambodian forces.

 

These forces are said to have penetrated 200 metres into Thailand and maintained their foothold there despite the diplomatic dialogue. This apparent inactivity, Srisuwan claims, might breach Section 1 of the Constitution and Section 119 of the Criminal Code.

 

As tensions flicker at the border, People’s Party MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn has weighed in, warning against premature assumptions that these tensions have completely settled.

 

Wiroj does concede that the situation has calmed enough to open a window for negotiations but remains wary of Cambodia's role, citing provocations undermining the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) 43.

 

The lingering presence of Cambodian forces has sparked concerns on both sides of the border. With allegations flying, diplomatic relations caught in the fray, and a potential legal battle at the International Court of Justice on the horizon, the ramifications of this cross-border altercation are yet to unfold fully.

 

The call for investigation signals a demand not only for accountability but also for a lasting resolution to the turbulent disputes shadowing the Thai-Cambodian border.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-06-10