Thailand’s youngest PM, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has been removed from office by the Constitutional Court, throwing the country into fresh political turmoil. The court said her phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen broke the law, less than a year after she took office in August 2024.
Her sacking not only sparks uncertainty in Bangkok but also continues the long history of Shinawatra family leaders being removed by courts or the military.
What Led to Her Dismissal?
The case revolved around a leaked phone conversation with Hun Sen, Cambodia’s former PM, when the two countries faced a tense border conflict last month. Paetongtarn was heard apologising and trying to calm tensions. At one point, she even criticised one of her own army commanders.
The court ruled 6–3 against her, stating that she “lacks the qualifications and possesses prohibited characteristics.” This sealed her fate. Although Paetongtarn defended her actions, saying she wanted to avoid war and open a channel for peace, the explanation did not convince the judges.
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Paetongtarn’s Apology to Nation
After the verdict, Paetongtarn addressed the Thai public. She said she only wanted to prevent conflict and make a diplomatic breakthrough with Cambodia. She apologised for the controversy but stood by her intentions.
Her dismissal also triggered the process of new elections to select Thailand’s next leader. Until then, the country faces political uncertainty.
Who is Paetongtarn Shinawatra?
Paetongtarn Shinawatra is the youngest child of Thaksin Shinawatra, Thailand’s 23rd PM, and niece of Yingluck Shinawatra, the 28th PM. Both were also removed from office by coups or court rulings.
In 2023, she became the leader of the Pheu Thai Party and later took the oath as Thailand’s 31st prime minister. At just 38 years old, she made history as the youngest PM of the country. But like her father and aunt, she too faced an abrupt end to her rule.
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Family Tradition of Political Battles
Paetongtarn’s removal shows a repeating pattern in Thai politics. The Shinawatra family, which has dominated Thailand’s political scene for two decades, has seen five of its members lose power through force or legal action.
Her case reflects how Thailand’s political institutions remain deeply divided between populist Shinawatra-backed parties and conservative establishments.
What Happens Next for Thailand?
Paetongtarn’s sacking is expected to open the door to fresh elections. Political observers warn that the battle between pro-Shinawatra forces and the traditional power centres will intensify. The ruling also raises questions about whether Thailand’s democracy can escape its cycle of coups, court rulings, and street protests.
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