Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, issued an apology on Thursday following the leak of a phone conversation. The PM explained that the call, which had been conducted using her personal phone, was recorded and released without her knowledge. She assured that her administration stands prepared to offer comprehensive support to the nation’s military.
The Thai PM faced a critical moment on Thursday as a pivotal coalition partner, the Bhumjaithai Party, exited the government alliance. This departure has intensified the pressure on her to step down.
The Bhumjaithai Party, the second-largest member of the coalition, announced its decision late on Wednesday. It attributed its withdrawal to the detrimental impact on Thailand’s integrity, sovereignty, and military following the embarrassing leak of a conversation between Paetongtarn and Cambodia’s former leader, Hun Sen, earlier that day.
The discussion in leaked audio reportedly revolved around a border dispute that has heightened tensions between Bangkok and Phnom Penh over recent weeks. Critics argue that her approach to resolving the border conflict undermines Thai sovereignty.
In response to what it described as a breach of international norms, Thailand’s Foreign Ministry declared the publication of this private dialogue as unacceptable. The government has since summoned the Cambodian ambassador to express their concerns formally. Officials from the ministry highlighted that publicizing private conversations, particularly one involving sensitive negotiations, violates established international practices.
As political tensions in Thailand heightened regarding sovereignty concerns following the Thai PM’s action, the Royal Thai Army issued a statement reaffirming its dedication to upholding democracy and safeguarding national sovereignty. The statement partly helped counter speculation about a possible military coup.
Major General Winthai Suvaree, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Army, stated that in the current climate—where various information and opinions are being widely circulated and impacting society—Royal Thai Army (RTA) commander-in-chief General Pana Klaewplodthuk has expressed concern about the domestic situation.
He urged the Thai people to have confidence in the Army’s unwavering commitment to the democratic system with the King as Head of State and reaffirmed the Army’s readiness to defend the nation’s sovereignty to the utmost, operating within the current constitutional framework.
The Army Chief emphasized that, upon careful consideration, the most important thing at the moment is for the Thai people to remain united and collectively defend the nation against ill-intentioned actors, prioritizing national interests above all.
