BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has accepted the Constitutional Court’s decision to suspend her from duties following the court’s 7–2 ruling to investigate a leaked audio clip of a conversation between her and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen. Speaking from Government House, Paetongtarn said she fully respects the court’s order and vowed to clarify her intentions within the 15-day deadline granted for her defense.
“I humbly accept the court’s ruling. I will use the time I have to fully explain my true intention — which was 100%, beyond any doubt, for the benefit of the nation, to protect our sovereignty and avoid conflict,” she said. “I never intended to gain anything for myself.”
The prime minister emphasized that the leaked audio, in which she reportedly referred to the Thai Second Army Region as “the other side” and Hun Sen as “uncle,” was part of a sincere attempt to de-escalate border tensions and preserve peace. She apologized to the public if her method or tone displeased anyone, adding that she was deeply committed to preventing bloodshed and maintaining national unity.
“I only thought about how to avoid conflict, how our soldiers would not have to shed blood. If anything I said to a foreign leader caused misunderstanding or anger, I truly regret that,” she added. “If people really listen to the clip, they’ll hear there was no bad intent.”
Despite being suspended, Paetongtarn said she would continue to serve the country as a Thai citizen, with full dedication regardless of her official position. “Even without the title, I still have the energy and heart to serve. I remain fully committed to doing my part for Thailand.”
She thanked the many supporters who had sent her words of encouragement overnight and into the morning, saying their support was deeply appreciated.
When asked whether she would remain in her post as Minister of Culture — a role she also currently holds — Paetongtarn did not respond and quickly returned to the Thai Khu Fa building before departing the premises.
Meanwhile, her sister, Pinthongta Shinawatra Kunakornwong, arrived at Government House at 1:34 p.m., entering through the rear of the building. The prime minister canceled her scheduled 2:00 p.m. meeting on domestic and international tourism safety and promotion, following the Constitutional Court’s order.
The political drama continues to unfold as the nation awaits the final ruling from the court, which could determine whether Paetongtarn is permanently removed from her post under Article 170 of the Constitution, based on accusations of violating ethical standards and jeopardizing national sovereignty. (TNA)
