Thailand’s PM digs in as defections and legal challenge threaten her power
As Paetongtarn Shinawatra tries to bolster her coalition, she could face a court challenge from Thai senators and planned street protests
Compounding her woes, Paetongtarn is set to face a court challenge from Thai senators and planned street protests demanding her ouster.
In the call, Paetongtarn addressed Hun Sen as “uncle” and appeared to criticise a senior Thai military officer, in a country where the powerful military has carried out a dozen coups and draws on a well of nationalist support.
Key coalition partner Bhumjaithai has left the government over the apparent failure by the prime minister to defend Thailand’s interests. Another partner in the coalition – United Thai Nation Party – is threatening to abandon the administration unless she resigns.
03:41
Thai government hangs by thread as leaked phone call shreds PM Paetongtarn’s credibility
Meanwhile, a petition from the Senate has been submitted to the Constitutional Court and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to have her removed from her post over the revelations in the call.