Massive Protest at Victory Monument
Calls for Paetongtarn’s Ouster
On June 28, 2025, thousands gathered at Victory Monument in Bangkok to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, citing her role in escalating tensions with Cambodia. Led by veteran activist Sondhi Limthongkul, the rally drew an estimated 10,000 protesters who criticized the government’s handling of a border dispute. The event, marked by heavy rain, concluded peacefully around 9:30 PM, signaling growing public unrest.
Sondhi’s Stance on Military Action
Civilian Governance Emphasized
Sondhi Limthongkul, a former yellow-shirt leader known for orchestrating the 2008 airport shutdowns, clarified he does not seek a military coup but would not oppose military intervention in a national crisis. He firmly opposed military governance, advocating for public participation in selecting future leaders. His remarks reflect a cautious balance, urging action to protect national interests while rejecting a return to military rule.
Coalition Parties Under Fire
Accusations of Betrayal
Protest leaders, including Anchalee Phaireerak, condemned not only Paetongtarn but also coalition parties for supporting her administration. They accused these parties of enabling policies that undermine Thai sovereignty, particularly in maritime disputes with Cambodia. The rally framed the coalition as complicit in national betrayal, urging their removal to restore public trust and protect Thailand’s interests.
Constitutional Court’s Role
Pending Ethics Ruling
The rally’s momentum is tied to an upcoming Constitutional Court decision on June 30, 2025, regarding a petition to remove Paetongtarn on ethics grounds. The petition stems from a leaked phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen, fueling allegations of misconduct. If accepted, the case could suspend Paetongtarn, intensifying protests if she resists stepping down, as warned by co-leader Jatuporn Prompan.
Historical Context and Warnings
Echoes of Past Movements
Dr. Warong Dechgitvigrom, leader of the Thai Pakdee Party, drew parallels to past anti-Shinawatra movements that ousted Thaksin, Somchai Wongsawat, and Yingluck Shinawatra. He warned that Paetongtarn’s leadership mirrors her predecessors’ failures, predicting her removal by the Constitutional Court. Warong suggested the leaked call is part of broader disputes involving maritime resources and illicit business dealings.
Escalation Threats and Public Sentiment
Future Protests Loom
Jatuporn Prompan, a former red-shirt leader now opposing the Shinawatra family, vowed to escalate protests if Paetongtarn remains in power. The rally highlighted public frustration with the government’s silence on a 2001 Thailand-Cambodia memorandum of understanding, seen as compromising Thai sovereignty. With mounting legal pressures on Thaksin, protesters anticipate significant political shifts, amplifying calls for accountability and reform.
