Who Will Lead Thailand as Acting PM After Paetongtarn's Suspension?
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Synopsis
In a significant political shift, Thailand's cabinet has appointed Phumtham Wechayachai as acting Prime Minister after Paetongtarn Shinawatra's suspension. This move raises questions about the future of Thailand's leadership amidst ongoing ethical investigations and public protests.
Key Takeaways
- Phumtham Wechayachai is the new acting Prime Minister of Thailand.
- Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been suspended pending an ethics investigation.
- The Constitutional Court is reviewing allegations against Paetongtarn.
- Public protests have erupted in response to the leak of her conversation with Cambodian officials.
- A newly appointed cabinet has been sworn in by King Maha Vajiralongkorn.
Bangkok, July 3 (NationPress) Thailand's cabinet has decided to appoint Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai as the acting Prime Minister, following the suspension of Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Phumtham, recognized as the first acting Prime Minister, will hold the same powers and duties as the Prime Minister, according to a statement from the Thai government issued after the swearing-in of new cabinet members.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, who previously served as acting Prime Minister, has now been designated as the second acting Prime Minister.
Paetongtarn, who was also appointed as Culture Minister in the cabinet reshuffle, has been suspended from her Prime Ministerial responsibilities by a constitutional court order, pending an ethics investigation. In a leaked call with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, she attempted to ease tensions, which instead resulted in numerous complaints and public protests.
Last month, a group of 36 senators filed a petition to the court seeking Paetongtarn's removal from office, alleging serious ethical violations related to a leaked conversation concerning border issues with Cambodia, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Earlier today, Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn swore in a new cabinet following a royal endorsement of the ministerial lineup earlier this week.
The Constitutional Court unanimously voted on Tuesday to review the petition accusing Paetongtarn of breaching ethics and decided 7-2 to suspend her immediately until a ruling is delivered. The court has given Paetongtarn 15 days to present evidence supporting her case, with no clear timeline on when a decision will be made.
Phumtham was appointed on Thursday as the first of several deputies slated to act as Prime Minister, according to government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub. Deputy Prime Minister Jungrungreangkit, who served as acting Prime Minister in the interim, led the new cabinet members during the ceremony to receive the endorsement from King Maha Vajiralongkorn at the Dusit Palace.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the gravity of the situation unfolding in Thailand. The appointment of Phumtham Wechayachai signifies a shift in leadership amid serious allegations against Paetongtarn Shinawatra. This situation underscores the importance of ethical governance and public accountability in Thailand's political landscape.
NationPress
03/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new acting Prime Minister of Thailand?
The new acting Prime Minister of Thailand is Phumtham Wechayachai, appointed after the suspension of Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
Why was Paetongtarn Shinawatra suspended?
Paetongtarn Shinawatra was suspended due to a constitutional court order pending an ethics investigation related to a leaked phone call.
What are the allegations against Paetongtarn?
She is accused of serious ethical violations linked to a leaked conversation regarding border issues with Cambodia.
What role does the Constitutional Court play in this matter?
The Constitutional Court is reviewing the petition that accuses Paetongtarn of breaching ethics and has suspended her until a ruling is made.
Who was acting Prime Minister before Phumtham?
Before Phumtham, Suriya Jungrungreangkit served as the acting Prime Minister.
