Suspended Thai PM Paetongtarn Seeks More Time in Ethics Case

Suspended Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has requested an extension from the Constitutional Court to file her defense statement in a high-profile ethics case involving a leaked phone conversation with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. The court initially gave her a 15-day deadline, which expires soon, but she and her office have indicated they may need more time to prepare their defense, with Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai suggesting a likely 15-day extension. The case stems from allegations that Paetongtarn sided with Cambodia over the Thai military in a border dispute, leading to public outrage, mass protests, and her suspension from prime ministerial duties. The Constitutional Court’s decision could lead to her disqualification and removal from office, posing a significant challenge to her political career and the Shinawatra political dynasty. Paetongtarn's defense argues that her conversation aimed to protect Thailand's national interests and accuses Hun Sen of exploiting the situation by leaking the call. Despite her suspension as prime minister, she remains Minister of Culture during the proceedings.