Thai Court Removes PM Srettha in 5-4 Vote; Deputy PM Phumtham Acts

Aug 14, 2024, 09:14 AM

Thailand's Constitutional Court has removed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin from office, citing an ethical breach for appointing a lawyer with a criminal record to the Cabinet. The court's decision, reached by a narrow 5-4 vote, has resulted in the dissolution of the Cabinet and is expected to cause political upheaval in the country. The ruling found that Srettha violated the constitution by appointing Pichit Chuenban, a former lawyer who had served jail time, as a minister. This marks the fourth time in 16 years that a Thai premier has been removed by a court verdict. The decision is likely to impact ongoing government initiatives, such as the handout scheme. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai will serve as acting prime minister until a new premier is selected by the parliamentary process.