Thousands of demonstrators flocked to Bangkok this weekend, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra after a controversial phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen was leaked to the public. The Prime Minister referred to Hun Sen as "uncle" and criticized a Thai military commander's remarks regarding a recent border dispute, prompting outrage among the population and forcing a key coalition partner to exit the government.
In an apology statement, Paetongtarn defended her call, asserting it was merely a "negotiation technique." Prior to visiting flood-affected regions in northern Thailand, the Prime Minister remarked that citizens have the "right to protest, as long as it’s peaceful."
Saturday's protest marked the most significant demonstration since the Pheu Thai party's ascendance to power in 2023. Braving the heavy monsoon rains, thousands gathered at the Victory Monument, brandishing Thai flags and placards with messages like "PM is enemy of state." Protest leader Parnthep Pourpongpan emphasized that the prime minister ought to "step aside because she embodies the problem" facing Thailand.
Veteran protester Seri Sawangmue, 70, traveled from the northern region by bus to join the movement and expressed, "I've lived through many political crises and know where this is going." The Prime Minister has stated she will not engage in future discussions with Hun Sen, yet many protesters feel she and her influential family are under his sway.
At just 38 years old, Paetongtarn is the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who returned to Thailand after a long exile in August. Since her election ten months ago, she has already faced substantial opposition as the nation's second female Prime Minister, the first being her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra.
The rally was organized by the United Force of the Land, a coalition of mainly nationalist activists advocating for an end to Shinawatra leadership, having protested against previous governments led by the family for over two decades. In a statement to attendees, the group criticized the government and parliament for failing to uphold democratic principles and the constitutional monarchy.
The demonstration took place despite inclement weather, with protesters protecting themselves with umbrellas. When the rain ceased, a rainbow appeared above the Victory Monument—a hopeful sign for many. A court ruling is anticipated on Tuesday regarding a petition by senators to remove Paetongtarn from office for alleged misconduct associated with her call to Hun Sen.
The underlying tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have historical roots, exacerbated following a deadly border clash that occurred in May. Both nations have imposed bilateral restrictions, with Cambodia outright banning Thai imports across a range of sectors. Despite these tensions, the longstanding friendship between the Shinawatras and the Hun family persists, as the two fathers have long regarded each other as "godbrothers."
