Locations Affected: Thailand
What: On 28 June, over 20,000 protestors gathered at Bangkok’s Victory Monument and surrounding streets demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Organized by United Force of the Land, a nationalist activist group, the protest also called on coalition parties to withdraw from government. The Bhumjaithai Party, the largest coalition partner, had already left the coalition on 18 June (effective 19 June), reducing the 10-party government to a slim parliamentary majority. This was reportedly the largest protest since the Pheu Thai party took power in 2023.
Reason for the Protest
Why: Since 28 May, tensions have risen along the Thailand–Cambodia border after a military clash in the disputed area between Cambodia’s Preah Vihear Province and Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani Province. Prime Minister Paetongtarn has faced criticism for her handling of the situation. Discontent grew further after a leaked 15 June phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen, in which Paetongtarn was heard criticizing a senior Thai military official and was perceived to be conciliatory toward Hun Sen. Protestors argue this conversation undermined confidence in Thailand’s military.
Impact of the Protest and Legal Pressures
- The protest caused heavy traffic congestion around Victory Monument. Authorities closed inbound traffic on Ratchawithi Road and Phahon Yothin Road, advising alternate routes via the Din Daeng expressway underpass.
- Demonstrators included groups historically opposed to Paetongtarn’s father, Thaksin Shinawatra, and her aunt Yingluck, both previously ousted in military coups.
- Paetongtarn faces additional legal pressures, with petitions alleging ethical violations and constitutional breaches related to the leaked call, under review by the Constitutional Court and the national anti-corruption agency.
- he Thailand–Cambodia border conflict has led to mutual border restrictions and Cambodian limits on certain Thai imports, including food and electricity supplies.
Outlook on the Situation
The Constitutional Court is scheduled to meet on 01 July to consider Paetongtarn’s removal from office and could suspend her while the case proceeds, with a final judgment potentially taking months. Political tensions may persist, delaying policymaking and parliamentary processes. If more coalition partners withdraw, the government could lose its majority, heightening instability. The Bhumjaithai Party has announced plans for a no-confidence motion when parliament reconvenes on 03 July. Additional protests and increased security measures around demonstration sites are likely. Organizations should maintain situational awareness and prepare contingency plans.
