Politics Paetongtarn Faces 29 Aug Verdict Over Leaked Hun Sen Call

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Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World

 

The Constitutional Court will deliver its verdict on 29 August regarding the leaked phone conversation that involves suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodian leader Hun Sen. This high-profile case sees 36 senators calling for a ruling on what they deem gross ethical misconduct and dishonesty by Paetongtarn.

 

Upon accepting the petition, the court suspended her from her duties as Prime Minister. Paetongtarn acknowledged that the recording was genuine during a press conference, describing it as a private negotiation to maintain peace and Thailand’s sovereignty. However, the recording, leaked from Hun Sen’s camp, has fuelled a political storm.

 

In the contentious recording, Paetongtarn refers to a Thai Second Army Region commander as “the opposition” and expresses a willingness to comply with Hun Sen’s requests. Her accusers claim this demonstrates an alarming degree of inaction and a failure to fulfil her responsibilities as Prime Minister. They suggest her actions were influenced by personal relationships, allegedly accommodating Cambodia’s demands.

 

The petitioners further argue that her remarks about the commander indicate a lack of integrity and a serious breach of ethical standards. This case has jeopardised her political career and heightened scrutiny of her relationship with Hun Sen, as reported by Thai PBS World.

 

Remarkably, following the recording's release, Paetongtarn's father, Thaksin, declared his friendship with Hun Sen is over, even though they shared a longstanding relationship for over a decade.

 

As Thailand awaits the court's decision, the implications of this ruling could be significant for Paetongtarn’s future in office. The ruling could significantly alter the political landscape, providing valuable insights into the application of ethical codes at the highest level. Regardless of the outcome, the nation will experience significant political repercussions.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from THai PBS World 2025-08-14