Thai PM Faces Fierce Backlash After Controversial Call with Hun Sen

The fallout from the call has highlighted deepening political tensions in Thailand, threatening the stability of her premiership.

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is encountering severe backlash following her remarks in a recent conversation with Cambodia's long-time leader, Hun Sen. The chat, intended to resolve lingering tensions regarding a border dispute, did not go as planned and has ignited fresh political chaos in Thailand, a nation already struggling with ongoing instability.

During a discussion on Sunday, which occurred via interpreters, Ms. Paetongtarn referred to Mr. Hun Sen as "uncle" in English, signaling a personal relationship that critics argue undermines her authority. In an audio clip later shared on Mr. Hun Sen's Facebook page, she suggested that he disregard what she termed "the opposite side," which appeared to reference the Thai military. Ms. Paetongtarn's comments included a proposal for any requests Mr. Hun Sen might have, stating, "Tell him that actually if he wants something, he can say it and we will arrange it for him."

The recording’s public release has prompted widespread outrage among lawmakers from both Ms. Paetongtarn’s coalition and the opposition. Many have called for her resignation, arguing that her comments reflect a troubling weakness in her leadership at a time when Thailand requires strong governance and unity. As social media buzzes with criticism, the prime minister's earlier intentions to quell the border dispute now seem overshadowed by a potential political crisis, further complicating the already volatile situation in the country.