Thailand is once again facing political upheaval after its Constitutional Court ruled to remove Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office. The decision, tied to a leaked phone call with Cambodia’s former leader Hun Sen, has reignited debate over Thailand’s fragile democracy, the enduring role of the Shinawatra family, and the country’s turbulent relationship with its powerful establishment.
The Scandal That Sparked the Fall
The controversy began with a leaked audio call on June 15, during heightened border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia. In the recording, Paetongtarn referred to Hun Sen as “uncle” and appeared to criticize her own military while suggesting she would accommodate Cambodia’s requests.
For critics, the remarks crossed the line, raising accusations of undermining national security and favoring a foreign power during a sensitive conflict. Weeks later, fighting along the Thai-Cambodian border claimed dozens of lives, deepening public outrage and fueling calls for her removal.
The Court’s Ruling
In a 6-3 decision, the Constitutional Court concluded that Paetongtarn “seriously violated ethical standards” and “lacked the qualifications” required under the constitution. This judgment immediately ended her premiership, just one year after she took office as Thailand’s youngest prime minister.
The ruling also dissolved her cabinet, placing ministers in caretaker roles until parliament selects a new leader.
A Family Tradition of Political Battles
The Shinawatra name has long defined Thailand’s political landscape—and its controversies.
- Thaksin Shinawatra, Paetongtarn’s father, was ousted in 2006 and lived in exile for over a decade.
- Yingluck Shinawatra, her aunt, was dismissed in 2014 before a military coup.
- Other family members, including her uncle Somchai Wongsawat, have also been forced from power by court rulings.
Paetongtarn’s removal continues this cycle, highlighting how political dynasties in Thailand face repeated clashes with entrenched elites.
Coalition in Disarray
Paetongtarn’s ouster has rattled the Pheu Thai Party, which now must scramble to nominate a new prime ministerial candidate. Their only option appears to be Chaikasem Nitisiri, a former justice minister, though it is unclear if he can secure coalition support.
The situation worsened when Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul—once a key ally—resigned from his posts and left the coalition, deepening uncertainty over whether the ruling bloc can survive. If no consensus is reached, fresh elections may be the only way forward.
The Bigger Picture: Establishment vs Reform
For decades, Thai politics has followed a familiar script: elected governments with popular support clash with powerful military, royalist, and business elites. Courts often become the instrument of change, removing leaders, banning lawmakers, and even dissolving political parties.
The removal of Paetongtarn echoes past episodes where Shinawatra-backed parties won elections but struggled to hold power. Many analysts believe that despite its troubles, Pheu Thai may still be tolerated by the establishment—as a bulwark against the surging opposition People’s Party, whose reformist agenda threatens deeper systemic change.
What Lies Ahead
The verdict has left Thailand’s political future uncertain. A weakened ruling coalition, a faltering economy, and an emboldened opposition all point toward turbulent months ahead. Whether Pheu Thai can regroup or the nation is pushed toward new elections, one thing is clear: the Shinawatra dynasty’s influence endures, even as its leaders continue to be unseated.
