Court to weigh petition on PM's audio leak row

The fate of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra hangs in the balance as the Constitutional Court will consider on July 1 whether to accept a petition calling for her suspension over a leaked audio clip featuring her conversation with Hun Sen, the president of the Cambodian Senate.

- MONGKOL BANGPRAPA AEKARACH SATTABURUTH

The petition, submitted by 36 senators, requests the court to investigate the leaked audio clip allegedly implicating the prime minister in conduct that breaches the constitution, lacks integrity, and violates serious ethical standards. The senators are also seeking her suspension pending the court's ruling.

The controversy stems from a formal complaint filed on June 19, in which the senators sought the removal of Ms Paetongtarn from office.

They cited a lack of qualifications and the presence of prohibited characteristics under Sections 160 (4) and (5) of the constitution. The complaint also accuses the prime minister of a lack of honesty and of engaging in conduct that constitutes a grave breach of ethical standards.

According to the senators, Ms Paetongtarn’s alleged actions have tarnished the dignity of the premiership. They claim she abused her power by conflating personal interests with those of the state, thereby violating the principles of public interest and good governance.