Source: foxnews.com
Image content: The image shows a large public protest or rally with many people waving red, white, and blue flags. At the center, a prominent sign reads “PM IS ENEMY OF STATE,” indicating opposition to the prime minister. The crowd appears energetic and densely packed under an overpass.
Summary
Thailand’s Constitutional Court has suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra while it investigates ethics complaints stemming from a leaked phone call with Cambodia’s Hun Sen after a deadly border clash. In the call, she criticized a Thai military commander while seeking to de-escalate tensions, prompting accusations from conservatives of undermining the military and triggering protests. The court voted 7–2 to suspend her, granting roughly two weeks to respond, as the deputy prime minister assumes acting leadership. The episode deepens Thailand’s recurring judicial-politics turmoil, strains her already fragile coalition amid falling approval ratings, and extends the Shinawatra family’s long-running confrontations with the establishment.
Key Points
- Constitutional Court voted 7–2 to suspend PM Paetongtarn during an ethics probe.
- Leaked call with Hun Sen followed a fatal May border clash and criticized a Thai commander.
- Paetongtarn apologized, saying the call aimed to prevent escalation and protect troops.
- Protests and political pressure intensify as her coalition weakens and approval sinks.
- Deputy PM Suriya becomes acting leader amid broader Shinawatra-establishment tensions.