Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been suspended from duty by the Constitutional Court, pending its ruling on a petition linked to a controversial leaked phone conversation with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen.
The court announced the decision on Tuesday, stating that the nine judges voted unanimously to accept the petition filed by 36 senators for consideration. In a 7–2 vote, the court also ruled to temporarily suspend Ms Paetongtarn from her duties as prime minister while the case is being deliberated.
The petition stems from a leaked audio recording in which Ms Paetongtarn is heard making critical remarks about the commander of the 2nd Army Region, referring to him as an adversary. She also appears to adopt a subservient tone during the conversation, expressing a willingness to comply with demands from Hun Sen.
The 2nd Army Region is responsible for overseeing Thailand’s border with Cambodia, from Sa Kaeo to Ubon Ratchathani, and includes four disputed areas that are currently a point of contention between the two countries.
The petition accuses Ms Paetongtarn of lacking the necessary qualifications and moral integrity required of a prime minister, citing Sections 160 (4) and (5) of the Thai constitution. The complaint alleges that her conduct represents a serious violation of ethical standards, with claims of dishonesty and disloyalty to the national interest.
Despite her suspension as prime minister, Ms Paetongtarn remains in the cabinet in her role as Minister of Culture. Her appointment to the post was included in a royal command issued on Monday and officially published on Tuesday morning.
Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has now assumed the responsibilities of acting prime minister.
The court’s decision comes at a politically sensitive time, with diplomatic tensions simmering along the Thai-Cambodian border and the government facing increasing scrutiny over national security and foreign relations.
Further developments are expected in the coming days as the Constitutional Court begins its full review of the case.