Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) voted on 14/7 to investigate whether suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, currently serving as Culture Minister, "seriously violated ethical standards" during a phone call with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen last month.

The NACC formed an investigative committee, comprising NACC chief Suchart Trakulkasemsuk and commissioner Prapas Kong-ied, to examine the leaked call. Paetongtarn may face court if the NACC finds evidence of serious ethical breaches.

Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Bangkok, Thailand, on 3/7. Photo: AP

Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Bangkok, Thailand, on 3/7. Photo: AP

Senate Speaker Mongkol Surasajja forwarded a complaint from a group of senators to the NACC last month, requesting an assessment of whether Paetongtarn's call with Hun Sen constituted misconduct or a serious ethical violation.

This NACC investigation comes as Thailand's Constitutional Court reviews a petition from 36 senators seeking Paetongtarn's removal as Culture Minister.

The senators argue she is ineligible for any cabinet position after her suspension as Prime Minister, as the call with Hun Sen could be considered a breach of ethical standards for ministerial officials.

Paetongtarn stated she will explain the call with Hun Sen in court and affirmed her commitment to serving the country.

Ngoc Anh (Nation, Reuters)