Politics Parallel Lawsuit Seeks Paetongtarn's Ouster Amid Court Drama

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Picture courtesy of Thai Rath

 

The political drama intensifies around Paetongtarn Shinawatra, as political activists filed a parallel lawsuit aimed at ensuring her impeachment reaches the Supreme Court. This comes ahead of Friday's crucial ruling by the Constitutional Court, where the current Prime Minister faces allegations of misconduct. Activists, fearing a possible acquittal, have taken their concerns to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC).

 

The lawsuit alleges Paetongtarn, daughter of influential Pheu Thai figure Thaksin Shinawatra, committed a grave ethical breach and lacked integrity. Central to the case is a leaked phone conversation between Paetongtarn and Cambodian leader Hun Sen, where she purportedly revealed sensitive military information amid a border spat. The activists claim this amounts to treason, citing a failure to safeguard Thailand’s national interests and territorial dignity.

 

Former senator Somchai Sawaengkarn, alongside activists Tul Sitthisomwong and Nititorn Lamlua, were key figures in lodging today's complaint. They argue that Paetongtarn's chat with Hun Sen violated diplomatic norms and legal standards, risking national security in the process, reported Thai Newsroom.

 

Should the NACC decide to accept this new lawsuit, a formal investigation into Paetongtarn’s alleged misconduct will commence. Consequent findings would then be forwarded to the Supreme Court, potentially seeing her not only removed from office but also facing criminal charges. This could lead to jail time and a lifetime ban from politics.

 

The court ruling expected this Friday looms large, creating tension among government critics. There's growing concern that Paetongtarn could escape the current charges, with whispers of possible underhand deals to maintain her position. Such fears have driven the activists’ recent legal manoeuvre, aiming to ensure accountability through the highest court.

 

In summary, political activists have escalated their efforts against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra by filing a parallel lawsuit with the NACC, seeking her impeachment on grounds of treason and ethical misconduct. As Thailand awaits Friday's pivotal court decision, the lawsuit underscores allegations of betrayal during a sensitive Thai-Cambodian conflict. If the NACC proceeds, and the matter reaches the Supreme Court, the implications for Paetongtarn’s political future could be severe.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-08-27