Kathmandu: Thailand’s Constitutional Court has suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from her duties following allegations of misconduct over a leaked phone call with Cambodian leader Hun Sen. The controversial conversation included criticism of Thailand’s military commander, sparking nationwide outrage.
In Thailand, where the military holds significant political influence, such remarks are considered highly sensitive. The leaked recording triggered political unrest and raised serious ethical concerns.
The court has accepted a case against Shinawatra for violating ethical conduct and ruled that she cannot perform her prime ministerial duties until the investigation is concluded. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai will now serve as acting Prime Minister until the court delivers its final verdict.
The government is now facing a deepening political crisis. Following the leak, one major party has withdrawn from the ruling coalition, weakening the government’s parliamentary majority.
In response, Prime Minister Shinawatra publicly apologized, explaining that her comments were intended only to address ongoing disputes, not to criticize the military. She expressed her respect for the court’s process but admitted she is “deeply concerned” about the situation.
Meanwhile, Thailand’s Anti-Corruption Commission has launched a separate investigation against her, further increasing the risk of her permanent removal from office.
In an immediate political shake-up, the Thai King has approved a cabinet reshuffle. Several ministers have been replaced, and new faces have joined the government. Interestingly, Shinawatra has appointed herself as the new Minister of Culture, pledging to promote Thai culture on the global stage as she awaits the court’s final decision.
