• Bhumjaithai Party withdraws from Thailand's ruling coalition, leaving PM Paetongtarn's government weakened.
• The withdrawal follows a leaked phone call with Cambodia's former PM, raising concerns over national sovereignty.
• Other coalition partners are contemplating their position, which could further isolate the prime minister.

The Bhumjaithai Party's withdrawal from Thailand's coalition government has escalated political turmoil for Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, putting her administration in a precarious position. The Bhumjaithai Party, which holds 69 seats and is the second-largest in the ruling coalition, cited damage to national integrity and public trust as key reasons for its exit, prompted by a leaked phone conversation between Paetongtarn and former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen regarding a territorial dispute between Thailand and Cambodia. "Bhumjaithai will work with all Thai people to support the army and officials who safeguard the sovereignty, territorial integrity and interests of Thailand in all ways," the party stated following their decision, indicating their commitment to national unity despite leaving the coalition, according to Channel News Asia and Bangkok Post.

Paetongtarn, Thailand's youngest prime minister and daughter of former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, is under significant pressure as the remaining coalition members weigh their options. With public support dwindling and the economy struggling, further withdrawals could threaten her position. The United Thai Nation, Chart Thai, and Democrat parties have scheduled separate meetings to deliberate on their future involvement. Should any of these parties withdraw, Paetongtarn could be left with a minority government, forcing her to consider a parliament dissolution or resignation as outlined by sources familiar with the matter, according to Reuters and Bangkok Post.

The leaked audio, which includes comments about military influence and public trust, has sparked outrage and led to calls for Paetongtarn to take responsibility for the perceived mishap. Critics assert that her handling of the diplomatic approach to the border issue has been ineffective, prompting some coalition partners to reconsider their allegiance. Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin Charnvirakul, expressed frustration over the coalition dynamics, particularly related to power distribution and cabinet control. The party's exit could lead to a significant political reshuffle as the government seeks to stabilize its remaining support, according to Channel News Asia and Reuters.

As the situation unfolds, the opposition People's Party is leveraging the turmoil, arguing that only a fresh election can resolve Thailand's current political gridlock. They claim that "the situation yesterday on the leaked phone call is the last straw for Prime Minister Paetongtarn in harming public trust in her," calling for government reform from the ground up. The future of Thailand's leadership remains uncertain as coalition discussions progress and pressure mounts on Paetongtarn to either adapt her administration or step aside, according to Reuters.