Politics Thai Opposition Demands House Dissolution Amid Coup Concerns

[snoop1130]

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

In a significant escalation of Thailand's political crisis, opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut has called on Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to dissolve the House of Representatives. This demand follows the fallout from a leaked phone conversation with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, which has intensified tensions within the Thai government.

 

The incident centres around a controversial call where Prime Minister Paetongtarn reportedly referred to a Thai military commander as the “opposite side” during discussions with Hun Sen. The conversation, which took place after a border skirmish on May 28, involved the commander’s suggestion to close border crossings with Cambodia— a measure the government ultimately softened to merely reducing checkpoint operating hours.

 

The leak has sparked a political storm, leading to the abrupt withdrawal of the Bhumjaithai Party from the coalition government. Additionally, Paradorn Prisnananthakul, a Bhumjaithai MP for Ang Thong, resigned from his role as the second Deputy House Speaker, further destabilising the coalition.

 

Addressing Parliament, Natthaphong criticised the government’s inability to fulfil its promises and tackle major issues such as constitutional reform, economic challenges, and military bureaucracy restructuring. He highlighted that the current coalition, led by the Pheu Thai Party, has been plagued by unwieldy cross-party alliances and broken pledges.

 

“The credibility of Prime Minister Paetongtarn is in tatters due to this leak,” Natthaphong stated, urging her to dissolve the House and return the mandate to the people. He warned that failure to address the situation might lead to pressure groups inciting unrest and jeopardising democracy.

 

Natthaphong and his fellow MPs issued a clear demand: the prime minister must dissolve the House and step down, allowing for a new election to restore legitimacy. “Thailand needs a government formed through democratic mechanisms to effectively solve the country’s problems,” he asserted.

 

The opposition leader also cautioned against potential escalations, reminding the public that a military coup is not a viable solution. He emphasised the importance of maintaining democratic processes, even amidst growing public dissatisfaction and potential protests.

 

In the wake of the leak, Hun Sen has denied any involvement in its dissemination but offered to provide the entire audio to Thai authorities for greater transparency. This development comes as a critical moment for Prime Minister Paetongtarn, whose ability to navigate this crisis could have lasting implications for her leadership and the coalition’s stability.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-19

 

 

[dinsdale]

I think it was last week (maybe this week) I said the House and the Senate should be dissolved with fresh national elections for both. This is what should happen but I think I can hear tank engines warming up.

[Artisi]

Get your supply of pop-corn ready, Thai politics is becoming interesting. 

[ronnie50]

3 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

In the wake of the leak, Hun Sen has denied any involvement in its dissemination but offered to provide the entire audio to Thai authorities for greater transparency.

Ah ha! That's what I figured. He didn't leak it. He could be lying of course, but I doubt it - nothing really in it for him. But personally I think this whole border thing was a set up from the get-go by the hidden hands on the Thai side to create the shakier ground the Establishment needs to try and formulate a coup. If she hangs on, the coalition falls apart and there could be a coup. If she dissolves the parliament it triggers an election and there could be a coup before the vote (establishment are afraid of a People's Party majority victory). The Bangkok Post's hard copy (I actually saw a hard copy today!) said she was 'boxed in' - I figure that's about right.

[webfact]

Army's Call for Unity Amidst Coup Concerns

 

Army spokesman Major General Winthai Suvaree

 

Thailand's army chief reiterates democracy commitment amid coup chatter.

 

In a climate of political unease, the Thai military has made a call for national solidarity as fears of a possible coup arise.

 

At a press briefing held at the Royal Thai Army headquarters in Bangkok, Army spokesman Major General Winthai Suvaree addressed national security matters, highlighting the spread of diverse opinions and information across media platforms.

 

He conveyed Army Chief General Pana Klaewplodthuk's concerns about Thailand’s political climate and simmering tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border.

 

These issues have stoked anxiety over a military takeover. The situation was inflamed on Thursday when a leaked conversation involving Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia's former premier surfaced.

 

In the audio, Ms Paetongtarn referred to a Thai army commander in a less-than-flattering manner, prompting her to issue a public apology. Despite the turmoil, General Pana reassured citizens of the army's dedication to preserving democracy under the leadership of the King and its readiness to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty.

 

General Pana appealed for unity, urging Thais to rally together against destructive forces in the current geopolitical environment. While the army's commitment to defend national integrity remains steadfast, the Defence Ministry also stepped in to placate fears. Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai reiterated that military forces have assured the public they will not instigate a coup.

 

On the ground, Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang, who commands the 2nd Army Region bordering Cambodia, confirmed routine patrols are continuing without any operational shifts. He also affirmed that political affairs are a matter for the government to address.

 

Amidst the backdrop of these developments, discontent has spilt onto the streets. Thursday morning saw protesters assembling outside Government House, voicing demands for Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s resignation over the controversial leaked communication.

 

As the nation remains on edge, the military’s strong affirmation of its loyalty to the democratic process aims to reassure a concerned public. However, with political tensions still running high, the situation remains closely monitored by both domestic and international observers.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-20

 

 

[ikke1959]

The army is meant to protect the country against invaders and enemies.. Not to be involved in politics, so i don't understand why the army is warning... Is the real enemy the Thai people and the politicians??? The Sinawatra clan is a real enemy indeed, but there is no need to perform a coup for it to get rid of this family... A good justice court could fix the problem, as a coup will throw the country back economical, financial and political...

[thesetat]

19 minutes ago, ikke1959 said:

The army is meant to protect the country against invaders and enemies.. Not to be involved in politics, so i don't understand why the army is warning... Is the real enemy the Thai people and the politicians??? The Sinawatra clan is a real enemy indeed, but there is no need to perform a coup for it to get rid of this family... A good justice court could fix the problem, as a coup will throw the country back economical, financial and political...

But in history, have you ever known or heard the military say in advance that they were planning a coup? I think not. They deny it until the day they send in the troops and take over. 

[fondue zoo]

Just because they are in politics doesn't necessarily mean they're good at politics. 

 

[hotchilli]

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Natthaphong and his fellow MPs issued a clear demand: the prime minister must dissolve the House and step down, allowing for a new election to restore legitimacy. “Thailand needs a government formed through democratic mechanisms to effectively solve the country’s problems,” he asserted.

Please.... Kick the Shinawatra's grasp and the useless PTP out

[webfact]

Coup Fears Cast Shadow Over Thailand’s Tourism Industry

 

Anti-government protesters gather in front of Government house demanding Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra resign in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, June 19, 2025, (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

 

Political ripples send shockwaves through Thailand’s robust tourism industry. Tourism operators across Thailand are raising the alarm, urging that a coup must be averted as political instability looms.

 

This call comes amid a backdrop of a leaked phone conversation between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen concerning a border dispute, which has led opposition parties to demand the dissolution of the House. Fears of a coup are gaining traction on social media, stoking further turbulence in the nation.

 

The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) stresses that previous experiences have shown coups deeply undermine tourist confidence. As vice president Ratchaporn Poolsawadee notes, the coup in 2014 drastically reduced foreign arrivals, primarily due to decreased trust and restricted travel insurance coverage in such unstable conditions.

 

The tourism sector, already plagued by an array of negative external factors this year, is keen to ensure confidence is preserved.

 

Exacerbating these concerns are broader geopolitical issues, including the Iran-Israel conflict and US tariff hikes, alongside the dwindling confidence of the Chinese market. Adding to the industry's anxieties, potential delays to the 2026 fiscal budget bill could stall vital tourism and economic initiatives if political unrest continues.

 

Demonstrations have begun sprouting against the Paetongtarn administration. However, Mr Ratchaporn positions this unrest as a normal facet of democratic expression and advises that peaceful protests pose no major threat to tourism.

 

Presently, international travel agents and tourists seem largely unperturbed by the country's political climate. Concerns instead lie with flight disruptions stemming from the regional Israel-Iran conflict.

 

Naree Suneta, president of the Hostel Thailand Association, warns that ongoing instability might compound issues within the sluggish Chinese market.

 

The repercussions could dampen efforts by the government, such as invitations extended to hundreds of Chinese travel agents to bolster tourism. Small-scale hotel operators are similarly worried over potential legislative delays affecting small and medium-sized hotels due to political disruptions.

 

Overall, the situation reveals a fragile balance in Thailand’s tourism landscape. While industry leaders steer clear of panic, they are keenly watching the headlines, aware that political decisions will ripple far beyond borders.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-20

 

 

[spidermike007]

Now Sen is denying the leak. He is a pig, and cannot be trusted. Ever.

 

I predict we have seen the last of the army coups. The biggest element is the total loss of moral authority. Next, Thai parents would not tolerate Burmese style violence against Thai people. Won't happen. The days of army rule (dictatorships) are over here. 

 

Hopefully the young PM will be dismissed. She was a terrible choice. Somehow her party was deluded into thinking she would appeal to the youth. She is an incompetent imposter. Everyone knows that.

 

The people prefer the PP, but the toxic powers will try not to let it happen. The drama continues. 

[Homburg]

Possible coup?  Wait for the official denials, then it's on for sure!

[Srikcir]

4 hours ago, webfact said:

the military’s strong affirmation of its loyalty to the democratic process aims to reassure a concerned public

555 

Thailand has experienced 13 successful military coups. Additionally, there have been numerous unsuccessful coup attempts. Then there are the "political" coups wherein the military controlled the unelected Senate and other government agencies/committees that can stop or diminish populist elected governments.  

 

[edwinchester]

15 hours ago, Artisi said:

Get your supply of pop-corn ready, Thai politics is becoming interesting. 

It's always interesting but almost entirely for the wrong reasons.

[Thingamabob]

The PM's recorded comments were naive unless she actually intended to take on the military. Either way her days in power are numbered, as are those of her father. I don't expect a coup. Possibly some sort of arrangement between Anutin and the PP.

[JRG23]

No one even voted for this government anyway. It's a complete sham.

[Aussie999]

It's about time the government took control of its military, even if it requires assistance from our side, Thailand cannot progress with the military always taking over.

[Aussie999]

16 hours ago, dinsdale said:

I think it was last week (maybe this week) I said the House and the Senate should be dissolved with fresh national elections for both. This is what should happen but I think I can hear tank engines warming up.

More than warming up, Thai military is using the squirmish with Cambodia to prepare for a coup

[TheAppletons]

15 minutes ago, JRG23 said:

No one even voted for this government anyway. It's a complete sham.

 

  No.

 

  It's a travesty of a mockery of a sham of a mockery of two mockeries of a sham.

[Aussie999]

14 hours ago, Hunz Kittisak said:

Best scenario is PTP and PP win elections and form the next government. As what the electorate wanted the last elections

Out with the military and their cronies 

Without external help, the Thai government will never control the military.,

[Aussie999]

Wait, haven't we heard this "

reiterated that military forces have assured the public they will not instigate a coup," quite a few times before...followed shortly by...yep, you guessed it, another coup... interesting fact, since democracy, 555, 1934, the military has ruled almost 50% of the time, it's a wonder anyone invests in such an unstable country.

 

[sammieuk1]

Coup' chatter- Baht no problem looks like the generals first priority will be secured 🤔

 

[Purdey]

I don't see any link between a democratically elected government and the ability to solve problems. There are democratically elected governments in many Western countries that seem unable to solve their country's problems. 

Should the PP become the next government, their inexperience may help defy expectations but there is no way that chanting "they were elected by the people" is going to solve the terrible economic problems of today.

[ozz1]

I thought the army worked for the government but in Thailand it's the other way around

[Donga]

10 minutes ago, Purdey said:

I don't see any link between a democratically elected government and the ability to solve problems. There are democratically elected governments in many Western countries that seem unable to solve their country's problems. 

Should the PP become the next government, their inexperience may help defy expectations but there is no way that chanting "they were elected by the people" is going to solve the terrible economic problems of today.

Am hopeful that army coups are behind us.

If there is another election, hopefully PP doesn't have take a strong anti-monarchist bent, which kept it from power last time around. Many seem to forget they were unable to form government because not one other party shared their lese majeste policy. The vast majority of Thai still respect the monarchy even if they vote for PP like some of my relatives did.

Lastly, agree Purdey, I'd be delighted to know which countries in the world don't have difficult problems.

[IsaanGuy]

Where is the puppet master?
 

[shackleton]

Maybe they should think first  of the  hit to the Country on Tourist numbers 

As most of the thinking is around what will affect the Tourists 

Thai  Jobs  hotels  restaurants  and so on 💸 💰 🤑 

[kingstonkid]

17 hours ago, dinsdale said:

I think it was last week (maybe this week) I said the House and the Senate should be dissolved with fresh national elections for both. This is what should happen but I think I can hear tank engines warming up.

 

The Thai people willnot stand for a coup Prayut set the bar at a level that people, including the yellow shirts, will not accept.  

 

I think at this stage you leave the senate alone until the court cases are completed or you will run into the same thing as before.  

 

The house is a different matter,  It is possible for PTP to run as a minority government but all their dreams are through.  They will not get the casino, any wage hikes will be limited, university grants will not get the 35k jobs and those who have not gotten the 10k can kiss it goodbye.

 

 

[spidermike007]

5 hours ago, ikke1959 said:

The army is meant to protect the country against invaders and enemies.. Not to be involved in politics, so i don't understand why the army is warning... Is the real enemy the Thai people and the politicians??? The Sinawatra clan is a real enemy indeed, but there is no need to perform a coup for it to get rid of this family... A good justice court could fix the problem, as a coup will throw the country back economical, financial and political...

The Thai army has never been an ally of the people. 

[spidermike007]

The people will not tolerate these goons much longer. My theory is that the army brass already knows this, and are now forming an escape plan. Hopefully into exile, but far better, into prison. 

 

They can fight a few tens of thousands. They cannot possibly beat many millions. And that is what we will see when this army created debacle is over with. 

 

They are utterly desperate to hang onto power, and access to the trillions of baht that likely generates for them. Using the LM and sedition laws shows how utterly intolerant of criticism these very small, very weak men are, that they need to hide behind and utilize these laws, to attempt crush the will of the people. 

 

The time is coming, when this will no longer be tolerated. Just wait. The army is on it's way out. It could take awhile, and it could get ugly, though it will never get to the hellish level of Burma, as the Thai parents would never, ever permit that kind of genocidal behavior from their sons. You take out one Thai, and you are forever disowned by this family. That is all it would take to bring about mass defections from the army ranks. That would sure be fun to witness. Are the pompous generals going to put themselves into harms way? Never. They do not have it in them, they are cowards.