Nationwide protests urge PM to step down

People have 'lost faith in this govt'

- PRASIT TANGPRASERT ACHADTHAYA CHUENNIRAN CHAKKRAPAN NATANRI

Protests are spreading across the country as demonstrators call for Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to resign or dissolve parliament following the release of a controversial leaked audio clip featuring her and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen.

The audio, widely shared online, has Ms Paetongtarn discussing sensitive matters and asking Hun Sen for help to stabilise her position and offering him anything he wants.

Critics claim the remarks undermine national sovereignty and show disregard for the chain of command, particularly with reference to the 2nd Army Region commander, who was described as being on the "opposite side".

In Nakhon Ratchasima, residents will stage a symbolic protest today at the Thao Suranari Monument in Mueang district, a symbolic site of local heroism and national pride.

"The people of Korat [a short name for the province] want to send a clear message that they no longer have confidence in this government," said one organiser, who requested anonymity. "The symbolic scattering of the ashes of the premier reflects the people's loss of faith and trust."

Demonstrators are also expected to show support for Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, the commander of the 2nd Army Region, and armed forces personnel stationed in the Northeast, who were indirectly criticised in the leaked clip, he said.

Tuss Jenpanat, 68, a Korat local, said: "The premier's lost the public's trust and must dissolve parliament."