THAILAND’S suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is likely to request a 15-day extension to file her written defence in a high-profile ethics case, according to Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
Bloomberg reported today that Paetongtarn, who was ordered to step aside while the Constitutional Court hears a petition brought by a group of senators, was initially given until 16 July to respond to allegations of misconduct.
“She will probably ask for more time,” said Phumtham, who is currently serving as acting premier during her suspension.
The court is investigating whether Paetongtarn violated ethical standards following the leak of a phone conversation with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. In the recording, she is alleged to have taken Hun Sen’s side over the Thai military in relation to a simmering border dispute – remarks that sparked public outrage and mass protests.
If found guilty, the 37-year-old leader could be disqualified from office and removed entirely from government.
Paetongtarn, the youngest daughter of former Prime Minister and influential political figure Thaksin Shinawatra, only assumed office in August last year, succeeding Srettha Thavisin, who was himself ousted in a separate ethics case involving a ministerial appointment.
The leaked call triggered a political crisis for her coalition government, with conservative opponents seizing on the controversy to stage the largest protests in Thailand in recent years.
Despite her suspension as prime minister, Paetongtarn remains in cabinet as Minister of Culture. The court's decision is now seen as a pivotal moment for her fledgling political career and the future of the Shinawatra political dynasty. - July 14, 2025
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