In a demonstration of resilience, tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets of Bangkok despite heavy monsoon rains, voicing their discontent with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and her management of an ongoing border dispute with Cambodia. According to police estimates, around 17,000 individuals participated in the rally on Saturday, demanding the resignation of the Prime Minister, whose nickname is “Ung Ing.”
The protest was orchestrated by the United Force of the Land, a nationalist group known for organizing similar rallies against various governments led by members of the Shinawatra family. Protest leader Parnthep Pourpongpan expressed the sentiment of the crowd, stating, “She should step aside because she is the problem.”
Shinawatra has faced increasing scrutiny and dissatisfaction due to her handling of a tense border situation with Cambodia, primarily surrounding the historic Preah Vihear temple. This controversy gained momentum after a border skirmish occurred on May 28, resulting in the death of a Cambodian soldier and leading to heightened tensions between the two nations.
The situation escalated further when a private phone conversation between Shinawatra and Cambodia’s former Prime Minister Hun Sen leaked to the press. In the call, she referred to Hun Sen as “uncle” and called a Thai military commander in the border area her “opponent,” comments that sparked public outrage. Shinawatra later issued an apology for her remarks, but the incident contributed to calls for her resignation.
This protest comes amid broader concerns about nationalism and historical claims to the Preah Vihear temple, a site of conflict not only in recent years but also in prior decades, including significant clashes in 2011. The International Court of Justice ruled in 1962 that the temple area belonged to Cambodia, a fact that has long fueled tensions between the two countries.
Hun Sen further escalated the rhetoric, accusing the Thai military of compromising Cambodia’s sovereignty during the recent conflict. His remarks at the 74th anniversary of his party underscored Cambodia’s historical struggles against foreign invasions and its recent rise as an equal player in regional affairs.
The situation remains fluid as the people of Thailand express their discontent, raising questions about leadership and diplomatic relations moving forward. The protests reflect the frustrations of many citizens who are increasingly vocal about national sovereignty and governance issues.