BANGKOK, June 12 (Reuters) – Thailand’s ruling party faces mounting challenges as it deals with a faltering economy, a border crisis with Cambodia, and a high-profile court case involving former premier Thaksin Shinawatra. The Supreme Court is set to hear a case this week that could send Thaksin, a key figure behind the current government led by his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra, back to prison. Thaksin avoided jail time last year by serving his sentence in a hospital, citing health issues, but the legality of this arrangement is now under scrutiny. Political analysts warn that an unfavorable ruling could further erode public confidence in the government, which is already struggling with nationalist tensions and economic woes. Critics have accused the administration of mismanaging both the economy and the border dispute, with household debt and military tensions exacerbating the situation. Despite Thaksin’s lack of an official role, his influence remains significant, and 60% of respondents in a recent poll believe his case will impact government stability. Meanwhile, the border conflict with Cambodia has sparked nationalist sentiment, with some calling for military intervention. Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has dismissed coup rumors, emphasizing the army’s cooperation with the government.
— new from Reuters
