Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets in Bangkok, voicing their demand for the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The unrest follows the leak of a phone conversation between Shinawatra and former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, during which she referred to him as "uncle" and criticized a Thai military commander's comments regarding a recent border dispute. This incident triggered significant public backlash, with her ruling coalition facing fractures, including the exit of a key ally.
Responding to the outrage, Shinawatra apologized, but labeled the discussion as a "negotiation technique." Prior to heading to northern Thailand, which was recently affected by flooding, she acknowledged the public's right to peaceful protest. The demonstration at Victory Monument marked one of the largest gatherings since her party came to power in 2023, with participants blocking roads and brandishing placards indicating sentiments like "PM is enemy of state." Protest leader Parnthep Pourpongpan asserted that the prime minister should resign, declaring her a liability for the nation.
Among the demonstrators was 70-year-old Seri Sawangmue, who traveled from northern Thailand to advocate for national sovereignty and assert the PM’s unfitness for leadership. He emphasized his experience with political turmoil, predicting a troubling future under the current administration. Amid the ongoing protests, Shinawatra vowed to cease communication with Hun Sen, who has been portrayed as exerting undue influence over her and her renowned family.
Paetongtarn Shinawatra, aged 38, is the daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra, a controversial former prime minister who returned from exile last year. Having held office for a mere 10 months, she is the second woman to occupy the PM position in Thailand. The protesters' coalition, United Force of the Land, comprises nationalistic activists opposed to Shinawatra's lineage and its impact on governance. They argue that the executive and legislative branches are failing to uphold democratic values.
While demonstrators shielded themselves from the rain with umbrellas, a rainbow appeared as a hopeful symbol over the Victory Monument. The situation remains tense, with the Constitutional Court set to evaluate a petition regarding Paetongtarn's potential removal for unprofessional conduct over her conversation with Hun Sen. This incident emanates from long-standing tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, intensified by border clashes that date back over a century.
