In a dramatic development that has further shaken Thailand’s political landscape, the Constitutional Court on Tuesday ordered the suspension of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from her duties. The decision follows the court’s acceptance of a petition submitted by 36 senators seeking her dismissal on charges of dishonesty and ethical misconduct.
At the center of the controversy, according to Reuters, is a leaked telephone conversation between Paetongtarn and Cambodia’s influential former Prime Minister Hun Sen. The petitioners claim the call constituted a serious breach of ethical standards and national security, accusing the premier of violating constitutional provisions related to integrity in public office.
The court’s move comes as Paetongtarn’s administration faces growing scrutiny and political pressure on multiple fronts. Critics have questioned her handling of sensitive diplomatic matters, while opposition forces are leveraging the controversy to push for her ouster.
The suspension marks a significant setback for the Shinawatra political dynasty, which has long been a polarizing force in Thai politics. Paetongtarn, the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, took office amid high expectations but now finds her government’s future hanging in the balance.
The Constitutional Court has yet to set a date for its final ruling on whether Paetongtarn will be permanently removed from office. In the meantime, her responsibilities are expected to be handled by a deputy prime minister or an appointed caretaker.
This latest episode adds to the political volatility in Thailand, where power struggles and judicial interventions have frequently reshaped the political order.
