The Constitutional Court of Thailand has ousted Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from her position, only a year into her tenure, due to findings of ethical misconduct.
On Friday, the court determined that she breached ethical guidelines by disclosing a private conversation with Cambodia’s previous leader. In this conversation, she seemed to bow to Hun Sen amid escalating tensions between the two nations, which escalated into armed conflict weeks later that lasted for five days.
During the call, Paetongtarn referred to Hun Sen as “uncle” and labeled a Thai military leader as her “adversary”, eliciting a strong backlash in Thailand where the military wields significant power.
Right-wing legislators criticized her for appeasing Cambodia and undermining the armed forces, while the primary coalition partner of Paetongtarn exited in outrage, nearly leading to the collapse of her administration.
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The Constitutional Court of Thailand also ruled that Paetongtarn did not possess the necessary qualifications as stipulated by the Constitution.
The cabinet, headed by Phumtham, is anticipated to function in a caretaker role until a new prime minister is sanctioned by parliament. This interim cabinet may also disband parliament and initiate fresh elections.
Paetongtarn has expressed remorse for the leaked conversation, asserting that her intentions were to prevent a conflict.
She marks the fifth prime minister in 17 years to be dismissed by the Constitutional Court.