Contested Prime Minister refuses to guarantee her court appearance on her birthday.
In the heart of Thailand's political landscape, the fate of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra hangs in the balance as she prepares to face the Constitutional Court on August 29, 2025. The verdict could potentially determine the future of her premiership and government.
The legal battle stems from a petition filed by 36 senators, accusing Paetongtarn of breaching national interests due to a leaked phone call with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen. The conversation, which took place on June 15, has sparked significant controversy, with critics arguing that it undermined Thai military authority and national interests.
The case centres around the ethical standards required of cabinet ministers in Thailand. The senators' petition argues that Paetongtarn violated constitutional provisions that demand “evident integrity” and adherence to “ethical standards” among ministers. This is central to the case, as the court will decide whether her conduct in the phone call constitutes a breach serious enough to warrant removal from office.
Paetongtarn, who is also the culture minister following a reshuffle on the same day she was suspended as prime minister, has submitted her closing argument by Monday, August 25, 2025, and firmly rejects calls to resign. She has not confirmed if she will attend court on August 21, her birthday, when a witness hearing is scheduled, during which the court will hear from her and the secretary-general of the National Security Council.
The conversation between Paetongtarn and Hun Sen contained derogatory remarks about the commander of the 2nd Army Region. However, Paetongtarn's legal defense highlights her active engagement in border security issues, including chairing meetings with military and foreign affairs officials and addressing the dispute through official channels and statements before the phone call controversy emerged.
If either Paetongtarn or the secretary-general fails to appear at the hearing, their absence will not delay the proceedings. The court has also instructed both parties to submit closing statements in writing no later than August 27.
The outcome of this case will significantly impact Paetongtarn’s political future. As the court prepares to deliver its verdict, the nation watches with bated breath, awaiting the decision that could shape the course of Thai politics.
[1] The Nation. (2025, August 18). Paetongtarn to face crucial verdict on Aug 29. Retrieved from https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30401483
[2] Bangkok Post. (2025, August 17). Paetongtarn's phone call with Hun Sen at centre of ethics case. Retrieved from https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2110814/paetongtarns-phone-call-with-hun-sen-at-centre-of-ethics-case
[3] Reuters. (2025, August 14). Thailand's Paetongtarn Shinawatra defends herself over border call with Hun Sen. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/thailands-paetongtarn-shinawatra-defends-herself-over-border-call-with-hun-sen-2025-08-14/
[4] The Diplomat. (2025, August 13). Thailand's Paetongtarn Shinawatra Faces Ethics Allegations Over Phone Call with Hun Sen. Retrieved from https://thediplomat.com/2025/08/thailands-paetongtarn-shinawatra-faces-ethics-allegations-over-phone-call-with-hun-sen/
[1] The ongoing trial of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, amidst accusations of breaching national interests, has raised concerns in the realm of politics, war-and-conflicts, and crime-and-justice.
[2] The controversy surrounding her leaked phone call with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen has also been a topic of general news, with debates centering around the ethical standards required of cabinet ministers in Thailand.
