Why Thailand’s Ruling Political Clan Faces a New Threat

Thailand’s most prominent political dynasty is on the brink of losing power once again. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is facing street protests and growing calls to resign amid mounting anger over a leaked phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen, in which she criticized the Thai army for its role in a border dispute with the neighboring country.

The controversy prompted the second-largest party in Thailand’s already fragile coalition government to quit on June 18, saying Paetongtarn had damaged the country’s dignity. If another key ally withdraws from the alliance, Paetongtarn’s coalition will be reduced to a minority in the lower house of parliament. She may be forced to step down or call an early election to avoid a prolonged crisis.