Turmoil in Thai politics continues, once again casting a heavy shadow over Paetongtarn’s political future as Prime Minister. Her earlier leaked phone conversation with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has been accused of violating ethical norms, prompting the Thai Anti-Corruption Commission to launch an investigation.
According to Bloomberg, citing several local media outlets, the Thai Anti-Corruption Commission, after a preliminary investigation, decided on the 14th to initiate a comprehensive panel investigation. The investigation stems from accusations by some senators, claiming that Paetongtarn severely violated or failed to comply with ethical standards stipulated by the constitution.
If the investigation panel finds sufficient evidence, Paetongtarn may be formally prosecuted, and the case will be transferred to a special division of the Supreme Court for trial. In the past, the court’s verdicts on similar cases have resulted in Thai political figures being permanently banned from holding or running for public office.
Previously, the Constitutional Court had already suspended her duties as Prime Minister over similar allegations of ethical misconduct. However, she still retains her cabinet seat as Minister of Culture.
If the Constitutional Court finds her guilty, she faces the risk of being disqualified and removed from office.
Thai Media: A Last Dying Struggle on the Political Stage
According to Thai Headline News Agency, if the investigation results confirm "conclusive facts," the case will be transferred for judicial proceedings in accordance with the law. Even though Paetongtarn will have the right to defend herself, it may be nothing more than the last dying struggle on the political stage; what awaits her may ultimately be a merciless legal judgment and the end of her political life.
The report said that not only is the "phone call scandal" a political disgrace, it is also a huge shock to Thailand’s political system and public trust. How the case will ultimately be characterized, whether Paetongtarn can reverse the situation or is headed for political demise, remains to be determined by subsequent investigations and the final verdict of the judiciary.