BANGKOK — Tensions escalated on Wednesday, June 19, 2025, following the leak of a phone conversation between Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. The incident has sparked a fierce political backlash, reigniting opposition movements and prompting calls for her resignation from key segments of Thailand’s conservative political bloc.
The Network of Students and People for Thailand’s Reform, an influential group with historical ties to anti-Thaksin movements, announced through its Facebook page that it would hold a press conference on Thursday to launch a formal campaign to unseat the prime minister. The group accused Paetongtarn of compromising national sovereignty and eroding public trust following the controversial dialogue with the Cambodian leader.
Leading the campaign are several prominent figures from Thailand’s “yellow shirt” protest movement, which played a significant role in mass demonstrations against the governments of Thaksin Shinawatra and Yingluck Shinawatra during the 2000s and 2010s. Notable names involved in the renewed effort include political commentator Jermsak Pintong, former senator Kaewsan Atiphoti, Somchai Sawangkan, former foreign minister Kasit Piromya, and other conservative stalwarts such as Dr. Warong Dejkitwikrom, Anchalee Paireerak, and Rosana Tohsitrakul.
Public outrage reached the streets today as hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside Government House in Bangkok. Protesters waved Thai national flags and displayed placards labelling the prime minister a “traitor,” while shouting slogans such as “Get out!” and “Go to hell!” Riot police were deployed to maintain order as the crowd swelled.
The political shockwaves extended to Parliament as well. The Bhumjaithai Party, a crucial partner in Paetongtarn’s ruling coalition, announced its withdrawal on Wednesday, citing the prime minister’s actions as disrespectful to the military and damaging to Thailand’s national interests. The party’s move poses a serious threat to the stability of her administration.
The content of the leaked phone call has not been officially disclosed, but critics argue it suggested inappropriate political alignment or concessions to Cambodia, particularly in areas involving military affairs or foreign policy.
This controversy adds to the mounting challenges faced by Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who took office in 2024 and has since struggled to bridge deep political divisions rooted in her family’s legacy. With opposition forces regrouping and public dissatisfaction on the rise, the prime minister faces increasing pressure to respond or risk a broader political crisis.
