Bangkok: Mr. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, a Member of Parliament from the Prachachon Party, has called for Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra to resign following the confirmation of a leaked audio clip involving the Prime Minister and Cambodian leader Hun Sen. The clip, which has raised questions about the legitimacy of negotiations on the Thai-Cambodian border issue, allegedly reveals private discussions that bypass official channels.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Wiroj expressed shock over the Prime Minister’s admission that the audio clip was authentic. He emphasized the significance of the Prime Minister’s roles as the head of the Executive Branch, Director of the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), and Chairman of the National Security Council (NSC), positions integral to national security and sovereignty. The audio’s content, according to Wiroj, undermines Thailand’s position in international negotiations.
Mr. Wiroj criticized the Prime Minister for discrediting his own negotiating team, arguing that unity and effective communication are essential in international disputes. He highlighted the potential involvement of Thai capitalists in illegal activities linked to the Cambodian government as a means to pressure Cambodia back to the negotiation table. However, Wiroj insists that this is not the time for political attacks.
Furthermore, Wiroj expressed disappointment in the Prime Minister’s handling of the situation, questioning the public’s continued trust in Shinawatra’s leadership. He was particularly disturbed by the Prime Minister’s informal reference to Hun Sen as “Uncle” and promises to manage any requests Hun Sen might have, without reaffirming Thailand’s sovereignty claims.
Despite continual suggestions from Mr. Wiroj for a more proactive diplomatic approach, he believes the Prime Minister has failed to heed advice, preferring secretive dealings over formal diplomatic channels. Wiroj asserted that the Prime Minister’s resignation might be the only way to restore public faith and resolve the ongoing dispute.
Mr. Wiroj also highlighted that any internal disagreements should be resolved within the government rather than publicly discrediting team members. He warned that the Prime Minister’s actions complicate domestic acceptance and trust, especially given the potential for these incidents to incite public unrest.
Discussing potential motives behind the audio leak, Wiroj suggested it might be a Cambodian attempt to incite division within Thailand but stressed that adherence to official procedures could prevent such occurrences. He criticized the Prime Minister for not relying on established diplomatic mechanisms and suggested that the leaked audio could be part of a deliberate strategy to undermine the Prime Minister’s legitimacy.
Addressing the role of the Prime Minister’s father, Wiroj argued that his involvement was unnecessary and that public statements regarding territorial issues were inappropriate. Wiroj suggested that resignation would be a responsible move for the Prime Minister, allowing the country to move forward without further conflict.
In conclusion, Wiroj expressed concern over the fragile political situation and dismissed the likelihood of a coup, which he argued would only validate Cambodian claims against Thailand. He emphasized the importance of legitimacy in international disputes and called upon the Prime Minister to consider whether he could trust himself in such a position if roles were reversed. Wiroj urged the Prime Minister to resign as an act of responsibility to restore public trust and facilitate national progress.