Scholars Urge Thai King to Address PM's Alleged Treason

Picture courtesy of Thai Newsroom

Over 100 academics from various universities and colleges across Thailand, along with retired military, police officers, and government officials, plan to appeal to King Maha Vajiralongkorn on June 27. They seek his intervention regarding what they describe as treasonous actions by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former leader Thaksin Shinawatra.

The coalition accuses Paetongtarn of jeopardizing national interests during a sensitive Thai-Cambodian border conflict. They claim she improperly handled the situation by siding with Cambodian leader Hun Sen, allegedly compromising Thailand's territorial integrity both on land and at sea in the Gulf of Thailand.

The controversy erupted after a phone conversation in which Paetongtarn reportedly promised to fulfill Hun Sen's requests while labeling a Thai army general as being “on the opposite side.” This, according to the scholars, constitutes treason against Thailand.

In response to these claims, the Constitutional Court is set to deliberate on July 1 on whether to proceed with a separate petition filed by senators. The petition accuses Paetongtarn of serious ethical breaches and betraying the trust of the Thai people regarding the ongoing border dispute with Cambodia.

If the court decides to hear the case, Paetongtarn could be temporarily suspended from office pending a ruling on the allegations.

Despite these challenges, Paetongtarn remains undeterred. She has stated her intentions to continue governing, crafting a new cabinet lineup for the Pheu Thai party and its partners. This reshuffle became necessary after the withdrawal of Bhumjaithai, the second-largest coalition partner, leaving several ministerial positions vacant.

The revised cabinet includes parties such as Ruam Thai Sang Chart, Klatham, Democrats, Chart Thai Pattana, and Prachachart. However, the newly proposed cabinet must still receive royal endorsement.

Should the Constitutional Court suspend Paetongtarn, legal protocols could prevent her from presenting the new ministers for royal approval. This would impede her ability to administer the oath of office to the cabinet during a royal ceremony.

As the nation awaits the King's response and the court's decision, the political future of Paetongtarn remains uncertain. This development could significantly impact the stability and direction of Thailand's leadership.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-06-26