Fact Check: Protesters claim PM is 'enemy of state' amid growing public anger
What We Know
Recent protests in Bangkok have seen thousands of demonstrators calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. This unrest was triggered by a leaked phone call between the Prime Minister and former Cambodian leader Hun Sen, which has sparked significant public anger. During the protests, demonstrators displayed placards stating that the "PM is enemy of state" and called for her to step down, indicating a strong sentiment against her leadership (BBC, Yahoo News).
The protests are reported to be the largest since the Pheu Thai party took power in 2023, with leaders of the protest coalition asserting that the government is not acting in the interest of democracy (Yahoo News). The Prime Minister has acknowledged the right to protest but has defended her actions during the controversial phone call as a negotiation technique (BBC).
Analysis
The claim that protesters are labeling the Prime Minister as the "enemy of state" is substantiated by multiple sources reporting on the protests. The BBC and Yahoo News both confirm that demonstrators carried signs with this exact phrase, reflecting a significant level of discontent among the public.
The credibility of these sources is high; both are established news organizations known for their journalistic standards. The protests are characterized by a clear message against the Prime Minister, which is echoed by statements from protest leaders who argue that her leadership is detrimental to the country (Yahoo News).
Moreover, the context of the protests—stemming from a leaked conversation that has raised questions about the Prime Minister's diplomatic conduct—adds weight to the protesters' claims. The implications of the call, which involved discussions about a sensitive border dispute, have fueled perceptions of unfitness for office (BBC).
Conclusion
The claim that protesters are calling the Prime Minister an "enemy of state" is True. This assertion is supported by credible news reports documenting the protests and the sentiments expressed by demonstrators. The public's anger, fueled by the leaked phone call and perceived mismanagement, has led to significant unrest and calls for the Prime Minister's resignation.
