The Constitutional Court of the Kingdom of Thailand has dismissed suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office for an ethical breach over her private conversation with Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of Cambodia. 

The decision was made on 29 August 2025, when the nine judges of the Constitution Court voted 6-3 against Ms. Paetongtarn, saying that she had violated the ethical standards a prime minister is subjected to under the Constitution.

Previously, on 1 July, the Constitutional Court suspended Ms. Paetongtarn from duty over her conversation with the Cambodian Senate President after the court had accepted a petition from 36 senators, asking the court to investigate the audio recording of the phone conversation, which was leaked by Samdech Techo Hun Sen.

In her defense, Ms. Paetongtarn explained that her private conversation with Samdech Techo Hun Sen was intended to protect Thailand’s sovereignty, bring about peace, and avoid fighting and loss of lives. She also had no intention of doing it for my own interest. 

The court stated that her remarks on the audio recording of the phone conversation potentially weakening Thailand’s position and allowing Cambodia to interfere in domestic affairs. According to the Constitution, a minister must be trustworthy, subject to scrutiny in all aspects. 

The ruling by the court on 29 August means the suspended prime minister will be immediately removed from office, together with her entire Cabinet. However, the remaining Cabinet members will continue to perform caretaker duties until a new cabinet takes office.

After learning the court’s ruling, Ms. Paetongtarn stated that she accepted the verdict and expressed her gratitude to the people for providing her with an opportunity to serve the country as prime minister. She also urged all sides to join hands in strengthening Thailand's political stability.

The House of Representatives will meet soon for a vote for the new prime minister. For the time being, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai will continue to serve as acting prime minister until a new prime minister is appointed.