Overview
- The Bhumjaithai party withdrew from Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s coalition on June 19 after finding her reverential tone in a leaked call with Hun Sen inappropriate.
- In the 17-minute June 18 call, the prime minister referred to Hun Sen as “uncle” and labeled General Boonsin Padklang an “opponent,” triggering military unease.
- Clashes on May 28 along the Cambodia border killed a Cambodian soldier and prompted Paetongtarn’s call to Hun Sen in an attempt to defuse tensions.
- Paetongtarn apologized to military leaders for her comments on June 19 before meeting General Boonsin in Ubon Ratchathani on June 20 to mend relations.
- Her coalition now holds only 261 of 500 House seats, raising the prospect of early elections or the formation of a new governing majority.