Top Thai Court Suspends Pm Paetongtarn In Ethics Violation
BloombergJUN 29
Thai Prime Minister Suspended Over Leaked Call With Cambodian Leader
Above: Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrives at a cabinet meeting at the Government House in Bangkok on July 1, 2025. Image copyright: Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
This is another politically motivated attack by Thailand's royalist establishment against the democratically elected Shinawatra family. Paetongtarn was trying to prevent armed conflict and save soldiers' lives through diplomatic negotiations. The Constitutional Court has repeatedly targeted Shinawatra-led governments, creating a destructive cycle that undermines democracy.
Narrative B
Paetongtarn's leaked comments showed she prioritized appeasing a foreign leader over Thailand's national interests and military. Her deferential tone toward Hun Sen and criticism of Thai commanders demonstrated poor judgment that damaged the country's sovereignty. The court's decision reflects legitimate concerns about ethical violations that warrant investigation.