Thailand’s Constitutional Court has removed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin from office, citing ethical violations related to a cabinet appointment. This decision has thrown the country into political turmoil, necessitating the selection of a new premier and raising concerns about the nation’s economic stability.
Key Takeaways
- Prime Minister Removed: Srettha Thavisin was dismissed for appointing a minister with a criminal conviction.
- Political Uncertainty: The ruling has led to renewed political instability in Thailand.
- Economic Concerns: The decision comes at a challenging time for Thailand’s economy.
Background
Srettha Thavisin, a real estate tycoon, became the fourth Thai prime minister in 16 years to be removed by the Constitutional Court. The court ruled that Srettha violated the constitution by appointing Pichit Chuenban, a former lawyer who served jail time for contempt of court, to his cabinet. The court’s decision was based on a 5-4 vote, highlighting the contentious nature of the ruling.
Immediate Consequences
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is expected to take over as caretaker prime minister. Parliament is set to convene to choose a new premier, adding to the uncertainty in a country already plagued by political instability for two decades. The ruling coalition, led by the Pheu Thai Party, will meet to decide on their candidate for the new prime minister.
Potential Candidates
The next premier must have been nominated as a prime ministerial candidate by their party prior to the 2023 election. Potential candidates include:
- Paetongtarn Shinawatra: Thaksin Shinawatra’s 37-year-old daughter and party leader.
- Anutin Charnvirakul: Interior Minister.
- Pirapan Salirathavibhaga: Energy Minister.
- Prawit Wongsuwan: Influential former army chief involved in the last two coups.
Economic Impact
The court’s decision comes at a difficult time for Thailand’s economy. Srettha had struggled to jumpstart the economy, which is facing weak exports, low consumer spending, and high household debt. The government had estimated a growth rate of just 2.7% for 2024, lagging behind regional peers. The stock market has also been one of Asia’s worst performers this year.
Broader Implications
The ruling could disrupt a fragile truce between Thaksin Shinawatra and his rivals in the conservative elite and military. This truce had enabled Thaksin’s return from 15 years of self-exile in 2023 and allowed Srettha to become prime minister. The decision also follows the recent dissolution of the anti-establishment Move Forward Party, which had campaigned to reform laws against insulting the crown.
Conclusion
Thailand faces a period of political and economic uncertainty following the removal of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The country must now navigate the complex process of selecting a new leader while addressing the economic challenges that lie ahead.
Sources
- Thai court removes Srettha Thavisin as prime minister after less than a year | Thailand | The Guardian, Guardian.
- play, Al Jazeera.
- Thailand’s constitutional court removes Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin from office over ethical violations – ABC News, Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
- Thai court dismisses PM Srettha for breaching ethical rules in Cabinet appointment – CNA, CNA.
- Thai politics braces for shakeup after court dismisses PM Srettha Thavisin | Reuters, Reuters.
