Thailand's Political Turmoil: Protests Erupt Over Prime Minister's Controversial Call

In Bangkok, a large group of people took to the streets to express their anger and demand the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The reason? A leaked phone conversation with Cambodia's former leader, Hun Sen, which has sparked a political firestorm. The protest was fueled by Paetongtarn's handling of a recent border clash with Cambodia, where one Cambodian soldier lost his life. In the leaked call, she was heard telling Hun Sen not to pay attention to "an opponent, " widely believed to be a Thai army commander who had criticized Cambodia's actions. The protesters, many of whom were part of the Yellow Shirts movement, are known for their support of the Thai monarchy and their opposition to Paetongtarn's family, who have a history of political power. The Yellow Shirts have been involved in past violent protests and even military coups. Meanwhile, Hun Sen, now the president of Cambodia's Senate, defended his country's territory and condemned Thailand's actions during a speech in Phnom Penh. He highlighted Cambodia's past struggles and its current stance for peace and cooperation. This political turmoil has led to a fracture in Paetongtarn's coalition government, with the loss of its biggest partner, the Bhumjaithai Party. She now faces investigations that could potentially lead to her removal from office. Protesters expressed their dissatisfaction with the current government, with one retiree stating that the prime minister lacks leadership skills and another guide demanding her resignation for being too soft on a neighboring country.