Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is launching a full investigation into alleged ethical misconduct by suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, according to local media reports.
The move adds to mounting legal challenges surrounding her involvement in a controversial border dispute with Cambodia.
The commission’s decision, announced on Monday, follows a preliminary inquiry and comes in response to complaints from a group of senators. The lawmakers allege that Paetongtarn seriously violated or failed to uphold ethical standards as outlined in Thailand’s constitution.
Should the panel find sufficient grounds, the NACC may formally charge the suspended leader and refer the case to the Supreme Court’s criminal division for holders of political positions. Similar cases in the past have resulted in lifelong bans from public office.
This latest development is part of a broader political crisis engulfing Paetongtarn’s administration. She was suspended from office earlier this month by the Constitutional Court, which is conducting a separate inquiry into the same alleged misconduct.
The case centres on a leaked phone call in which she reportedly discussed sensitive border issues with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, appearing to side with him over the Thai military.
Paetongtarn, the youngest daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, now faces the possibility of disqualification and permanent removal from office if found guilty. Her suspension has further destabilised a government that has been in power for less than a year.
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who is serving as acting premier during her suspension, said Paetongtarn may request a two-week extension to submit her formal defence. She was initially expected to respond by July 16.
The crisis deepened following the release of the leaked audio recording, which triggered public backlash. The incident sparked the largest anti-government protests seen in years, with conservative groups demanding her resignation.
Paetongtarn came to power in August after the removal of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, who was ousted in a separate ethics case involving the appointment of a cabinet minister.
Despite her current suspension, she retains a position in government, now serving as Thailand’s Minister of Culture.
