Bangkok: Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has announced a dramatic break in relations with Cambodian leader Hun Sen, sparked by a leaked audio clip and tensions over border issues. Thaksin confirmed the split during the '55 Years of NATION: Breaking the Deadlock in Thailand' event at the Eastin Grand Hotel, Phayathai, where he addressed questions from editors about the situation.
According to Thai News Agency, the rift began with the release of an audio clip involving Prime Minister Paethongtarn and Hun Sen. Thaksin recounted how an expected conversation between the two leaders, facilitated by 'Phi Huad', fell apart after they were left waiting for hours, allegedly due to Hun Sen being asleep. The clip's release caused significant political repercussions in Thailand.
Thaksin elaborated that the deeper cause of the fallout was Thailand's crackdown on gray business operations that have strong ties within Cambodia, linked to Hun Sen's associates. Thaksin mentioned a 25-storey building used for call center scams defrauding Thai citizens, which led to an investigation uncovering links to money laundering and blacklisted companies.
Though Thaksin and Hun Sen shared a close personal relationship in the past, Thaksin emphasized prioritizing national interest over personal ties, citing past incidents where he took decisive action for Thailand's security. He stated that the relationship with Hun Sen has ended, with no further communication following a single message sent after the incident.
Despite the current tensions, Thaksin believes that the situation will not escalate into conflict, likening it to a non-threatening "diving competition." He also dismissed concerns about potential impacts from Cambodia's petition to the International Court of Justice over temple disputes, confident that it will not affect Thailand similarly to past cases.