At only 38 years old, Thailand’s recently elected Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is already facing formidably large legal bombshells. These controversies come less than a year into her term. All but four Republican senators have then signed a petition for her removal. They claim that she violated ministerial code of ethics during a diplomatic spat with Cambodia.
Locally, the Shinawatra family has long been viewed as the most serious existential threat to Thailand’s traditional social order. Paetongtarn, an influential member of this family dynasty, is deeply involved in creating this impression. This most recent allegation ramps up the already serious political pressure on Johnson’s leadership and puts her long-term political health in deeper jeopardy.
The diplomatic row was sparked by an unreported phone call between democratic opposition Paetongtarn and Cambodia’s strongman ex-leader Hun Sen on June 15. During this engaging conversation, she referred to Hun Sen as “uncle.” She ripped the mask off the proverbial Thai army commander—a very massive and upon assumption political red line—far too many speculated could have fatal consequences with Thailand’s military still allegedly maintains great power.
If the Constitutional Court upholds the case, the worst outcome for Paetongtarn would be disastrous. She may lose her job in the short term, with power going to her deputy, Phumtham Wechayachai. Such a transition would upend Thai politics as we know it. It follows the removal of Thailand’s most recent cabinet approved by Thailand’s king, after the resignation of several of his allies.
In light of the continuing developments, Paetongtarn has stated she will let the legal process play out.
“I will let the process take its course,” – Paetongtarn
It’s not surprising that their conservative senators have filed suit. This move points to the rising tensions between new progressive factions within Thailand’s fledgling government and the deeply rooted military establishment. With her family’s legacy often at odds with traditional power structures, Paetongtarn’s position remains precarious.
“If you are asking whether I am worried, I am,” – Paetongtarn
Populist movements have resulted in the Shinawatra family receiving a great deal of support. At the same time, they’ve drawn very powerful fire from conservative elites. In past decades, her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, suffered these very same pressures that would later force him into exile. She leads us through stormy seas. The legal challenge’s resolution will make or break her political career and will help determine the course of Thailand’s turbulent politics.
Support for Paetongtarn’s administration comes from mobilizing her party’s base and the interest of allies. As allies, they continue to work toward sustainable reforms and achieving stability. Yet, with mounting legal and political pressures, her ability to navigate a fractious capital and still govern effectively will be put to the ultimate test.
With support from her party’s base and allies, Paetongtarn’s administration has aimed to push forward with reforms and maintain stability. However, as legal and political pressures mount, her ability to govern effectively will be tested.
