Thailand Court Removes Prime Minister Amid Rising Political Turmoil

Thailand has plunged into political turmoil following the Constitutional Court’s dismissal of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for violating ethical standards during a controversial phone call with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen amid deadly border clashes. The court ruled that her remarks, including addressing Hun Sen as "uncle" and criticizing a Thai military commander, showed a lack of honesty and integrity, undermining national pride and prioritizing personal interests over national ones. Paetongtarn, the youngest prime minister in Thai history and daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was suspended in July and formally removed in late August, along with her entire cabinet. Her removal has intensified political uncertainty, with no clear successor and potential instability in the ruling coalition, as key coalition partners have withdrawn support and parties negotiate the formation of a new government. Analysts warn that the verdict deepens divisions within Thailand’s already polarized political landscape, raising concerns of further chaos and instability, including possible coalition collapse or a fragile government led by a weaker figure. The dismissal marks the fifth time since 2008 that a Thai prime minister has been ousted by the Constitutional Court, highlighting ongoing political fragility in the country.