Who is the Acting PM of Thailand After Paetongtarn's Removal?
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Synopsis
In a decisive move, Thailand's Cabinet has appointed Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai as acting Prime Minister after the constitutional court's ruling against Paetongtarn Shinawatra. This transition comes with challenges and a focus on stability in Thai politics as the country prepares for a new leadership vote.
Key Takeaways
- Phumtham Wechayachai is now the acting Prime Minister.
- The cabinet operates under a caretaker framework.
- A new Prime Minister will be elected between September 3-5.
- Paetongtarn's removal was due to constitutional violations.
- Political collaboration is crucial for stability.
Bangkok, Aug 30 (NationPress) The Cabinet of Thailand has appointed Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai as the acting Prime Minister in light of a constitutional court ruling that led to the removal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra from her position. The announcement was made by Minister of the Prime Minister's Office Chusak Sirinil following a special Cabinet meeting, which also included the appointment of Prommin Lertsuridej as the Secretary General to the Prime Minister.
Chusak mentioned that the Cabinet has established a stringent framework to guide its operations during this transitional phase, ensuring stability while remaining within its legal limits. This action was mandated by the court's ruling, which stipulates that the current Cabinet must continue to operate in a caretaker capacity until a new government assumes power, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
The House of Representatives has notified its members to convene from September 3 to 5, during which the lower house will hold a vote to elect a new Prime Minister from the list of candidates submitted prior to the May 2023 general election.
On Friday, Thailand's Constitutional Court ruled to remove suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office over a constitutional violation linked to a phone conversation regarding border issues with Cambodia. A panel of judges reached a decision with a vote of six to three, determining that her actions constituted a significant breach of ethical standards.
The court also dissolved her cabinet; however, the remaining members will continue to fulfill their caretaker roles until a new cabinet is established. In her statement following the verdict at government house, Paetongtarn expressed her acceptance of the ruling, asserting that her intent was to safeguard the lives of citizens during the border conflict.
She stressed the necessity for cooperation among all parties to restore political stability and avert similar abrupt disruptions in the future. Paetongtarn also expressed her gratitude to the Thai people for the opportunity to serve as Prime Minister during her nearly year-long tenure.
Last month, Paetongtarn was suspended pending the court's inquiry into her conversation with Cambodian Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen concerning the border dispute, a discussion that was leaked online in June.
On July 1, the nine-member court unanimously decided to accept a petition from a group of senators who sought her dismissal, accusing her of lacking integrity and significantly violating ethical standards as per constitutional requirements due to remarks made during the conversation.
Paetongtarn, the leader of the Pheu Thai Party and daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was appointed last August, making her Thailand's youngest and second female premier following a parliamentary vote.
This appointment occurred after her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, was removed by the same court for an ethics violation related to appointing a cabinet minister with a criminal record.
Point of View
It is crucial to understand that the political landscape in Thailand is evolving. The appointment of an acting Prime Minister is a necessary step to ensure governance continues as the nation prepares for a new leadership vote. As always, we remain committed to delivering accurate and unbiased news to our audience.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Paetongtarn Shinawatra removed from office?
Paetongtarn Shinawatra was removed by the Constitutional Court for violating the constitution through her phone conversation regarding border issues with Cambodia.
Who is the new acting Prime Minister of Thailand?
The new acting Prime Minister is Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, appointed following the court's ruling.
What happens next in Thailand's political situation?
The House of Representatives will convene from September 3 to 5 to vote for a new Prime Minister based on candidates submitted before the May 2023 general election.
What framework has the Cabinet established during this transition?
The Cabinet has implemented a strict operational framework to maintain stability and govern in a caretaker capacity until a new administration takes office.
What is the significance of this political change?
This change reflects ongoing political dynamics in Thailand, emphasizing the need for stability and cooperation among parties to prevent future disruptions.
