"In a court submission, Paetongtarn disputes alleged harm to the Prime Minister's esteem as per the Constitutional Court claim"

Contested Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presents a counterargument to the Constitutional Court, disputing claims that her conduct undermined the prestige associated with the Prime Minister's office.

, and ASMedia

2025 September 2 . 4:54 PM

2 min read

PM's dignity not tarnished by Paetongtarn in Constitutional Court argument, as claimed by denial

"In a court submission, Paetongtarn disputes alleged harm to the Prime Minister's esteem as per the Constitutional Court claim"

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the suspended Prime Minister of Thailand, is currently embroiled in a high-stakes legal battle with the Constitutional Court. The case, which entered a critical phase in August 2025, centres around an audio conversation between Paetongtarn and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, and her actions during a sensitive territorial dispute near the Thai-Cambodian border.

In her submission to the Court, Paetongtarn affirms that her actions did not violate or breach the 2021 Civil Service Code of Ethics. She emphasizes that her actions were in line with national security protocols and aimed at maintaining Thailand's sovereignty.

Paetongtarn has outlined a detailed timeline of events, including her chairing of a government meeting overseeing the National Committee for the Prevention and Resolution of Security Threats in border areas, and emergency meetings with the Ministries of Defence and Foreign Affairs to negotiate military adjustments and manage official statements reaffirming Thailand’s commitment to peaceful resolution under bilateral agreements.

Moreover, Paetongtarn has requested the Court to allow the hearing of five expert witnesses, each with profound expertise in national security, border issues, and international diplomacy. The individuals she has asked the Court to consider are: Chatchai Bangchuad, Unsit Sampuntharat, Gen Puchong Rattanawan, Lt Gen Puttipong Cheepsamut, and Thanathip Uppatsrung.

Paetongtarn's defence centres on her proactive leadership during a tense border conflict and her commitment to peaceful, diplomatic, and constitutional methods in handling national security challenges. She argues that her actions did not cause harm to the dignity of the Prime Minister's office or undermine public confidence in her position.

Paetongtarn has also requested the Court to lift the interim measures that would bar her from performing her duties until a final ruling is made, allowing her to continue her role as Prime Minister in the interim. Closing statements are due by August 27, and the Court is set to deliver a ruling on August 29 regarding Paetongtarn's tenure as a minister.

The case is considered heavier than previous prime ministerial cases involving members of the Shinawatra family, with some advice publicly suggesting resignation. However, Paetongtarn maintains that continuing her duties as Prime Minister would serve the national interest and sovereignty. She has requested the Constitutional Court to allow the examination of these witnesses to ensure a thorough, fair, and unbiased hearing of the case.

The hearings for two witnesses, Paetongtarn and the Secretary-General of the National Security Council, were held on August 21. The Court will deliver its ruling on August 29, potentially marking a significant turning point in Paetongtarn's political career.