Protestors Demand Thai Prime Minister’s Resignation Over Leaked Call

The protest marked the largest gathering since the ruling party's rise to power, revealing deep public discontent and calls for Paetongtarn to step down, amid concerns over national sovereignty and political leadership.

Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of Bangkok this weekend to voice their demands for Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to resign. The unrest was sparked by the leak of a phone conversation between Shinawatra and former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, during which she referred to Hun Sen as "uncle" and criticized the Thai military's handling of a border dispute. This revelation ignited public outrage, resulting in a significant coalition partner in her ruling government withdrawing support.

In response to the backlash, Paetongtarn offered an apology while maintaining that the phone call was part of her negotiation strategy. As she prepared for a trip to assist flood-affected regions in northern Thailand, she acknowledged the people's right to protest peacefully.

The demonstration, attended by thousands braving torrential rain, marked the most significant show of dissent since the Pheu Thai party took power in 2023. Gathering at the iconic Victory Monument, protestors proudly displayed Thai flags and held signs declaring slogans such as "PM is the enemy of state."

Protest leader Parnthep Pourpongpan argued that Paetongtarn needed to step down due to her ineffective leadership. Among the attendees was 70-year-old Seri Sawangmue, who made an overnight bus journey from northern Thailand. He expressed his fears for the country's sovereignty, stating he had witnessed many political crises and recognized the impending consequences.

Despite the growing dissent, Paetongtarn claimed she would not engage in further conversations with the Cambodian leader. Protestors feel that she and her influential father are being unduly influenced by Hun Sen, reflecting a long-standing connection between the Shinawatra family and the Cambodian leadership.

Paetongtarn, who is the daughter of ousted former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is relatively new to her position, having taken office ten months ago. She stands as Thailand's second female prime minister, following in the footsteps of her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra.

The protests were organized by the United Force of the Land, a coalition of nationalistic activists who have opposed Shinawatra-led governments for over two decades. They criticized the executive branch and parliament for failing to uphold democratic values and the constitutional monarchy.

The atmosphere at the rally was characterized by umbrellas used to shield against the rain, and when it cleared, a rainbow appeared over the Victory Monument, providing a symbolic backdrop to the gathering. On Tuesday, the Constitutional Court will consider a petition by senators calling for Paetongtarn's ousting over claims of unprofessional conduct arising from the leaked conversation.

The dispute between Thailand and Cambodia centers on a historical conflict that has seen renewed tensions following a deadly border clash earlier this year, further complicating bilateral relations. However, despite this strain, the Shinawatra family has maintained deep ties with the Hun family for decades.