Political Fallout: Thai PM’s Leaked Call with Cambodia’s Hun Sen Sparks Controversy

BANGKOK (AP) — Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, faced growing political turmoil recently. Her troubles started with a leaked recording of her talks with Cambodia’s former leader during a border dispute.

After a major coalition partner withdrew support, demands for her resignation increased. Critics argue that her approach to the situation with Cambodia shows weakness, particularly right-wing nationalists who have long opposed her family’s political legacy.

The border dispute became deadly when a skirmish on May 28 left a Cambodian soldier dead in a contested area. Cambodia’s Senate President, Hun Sen, posted a 17-minute audio of their conversation online to clarify misunderstandings, claiming he shared it with over 80 people.

In the recording, Paetongtarn respectfully referred to Hun Sen as “uncle.” They discussed potentially lifting border restrictions put in place after the incident. However, her remarks about a Thai army commander, whom she called “an opponent,” sparked backlash, with many feeling she was compromising Thailand’s dignity.

Paetongtarn later asserted that her comments were merely a strategy for negotiating peace. She expressed distrust towards Hun Sen, stating he seemed more interested in his domestic popularity than maintaining good relations.

Thailand’s Foreign Affairs Ministry quickly responded, lodging a protest with Cambodia, calling the leak unacceptable and damaging to their relationship.

The political landscape has shifted dramatically. Shortly after the leak, the Bhumjaithai Party—Thailand’s largest coalition partner—announced its exit, citing concerns over sovereignty and national interests. This left Paetongtarn’s coalition hanging by a thread with just over half of the 500 parliamentary seats.

Opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut urged the Prime Minister to dissolve Parliament and call for elections, revealing how damaging the leak had been to public trust. Protests ensued, with nationalists calling for her resignation, and some in the Senate considered impeachment.

Concerns about a potential military coup are palpable. Both Thaksin, her father, and her sister Yingluck have faced ouster via military coups in the past. The army assured the public of its commitment to the constitutional monarchy, attempting to ease tensions amidst the growing unrest.

In the increasingly complex political climate, how leaders communicate—especially in sensitive negotiations—has never been more critical. The reactions reflect not only current sentiments toward governance but also historical anxieties about military involvement in politics. As Thailand navigates this turbulent period, the road ahead will require careful leadership and open dialogue to restore faith among its citizens.



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Thailand, Thaksin Shinawatra, Cambodia, Hun Sen, Political and civil unrest, Territorial disputes, General news, Asia Pacific, Nationalism, Protests and demonstrations, International agreements, Yingluck Shinawatra, Politics, World news, Richard Gelfond, Thailand government