Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Bangkok on Saturday, calling for Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to resign. The protest followed growing public concern over a recent border dispute with Cambodia. It was the largest anti-government rally since the Pheu Thai party took office in 2023.
The event was organised by the United Force of the Land, a group of mainly nationalist activists. Protesters waved flags at Victory Monument, a major intersection in the capital.
Political pressure grows ahead of confidence vote
Paetongtarn, 38, is facing pressure on several fronts. She is working to revive a weak economy and maintain a fragile coalition. A no-confidence vote may take place when parliament reconvenes next week.
Similar protests in the past did not directly topple governments. However, they often led to court rulings or military coups, including in 2006 and 2014. Continued political tension could slow Thailand’s economic recovery even further.
The Prime Minister said she was not concerned about the protest. She asked officials to ensure the demonstration remained peaceful.
“It’s within people’s rights, and I will not respond with retaliation,” she said.
Leaked call Triggers political fallout
The Bhumjaithai Party, a former coalition partner, withdrew its support last week. It cited concerns over national sovereignty following a leaked phone call. The conversation was between Paetongtarn and former Cambodian leader Hun Sen.
In the call, she appeared to criticise a Thai army commander and adopt a conciliatory tone towards Hun Sen. The military holds considerable influence in Thai politics, and her remarks were seen as controversial.
She later apologised. Despite this, a group of senators submitted petitions to the Constitutional Court and the anti-corruption body. Both have the authority to investigate her conduct. Their decisions could result in her removal from office.
Paetongtarn faces growing diplomatic tensions over Cambodia dispute
Hun Sen delivered a long televised speech on Friday. In it, he strongly criticised Paetongtarn and her family. He also called for a change of government in Thailand. This was a rare public attack, especially given his past ties with the Shinawatra family.
Thailand’s foreign ministry described the speech as “extraordinary.” Officials stated that the government still prefers to resolve the dispute through diplomatic channels.
