Thailand’s PM Paetongtarn suspended over leaked call as political crisis deepens
Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s suspension has thrown Thailand’s government into tumult, raising fears of increased instability
Paetongtarn’s powers will be suspended from Tuesday while the nine-member court considers a petition by a group of 36 senators accusing her of breaching ethical standards in violation of the constitution. The decision to suspend her duties was backed by seven out of nine judges, the court said in a statement.
Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit will assume a caretaker role while the court decides the case against Paetongtarn, who has 15 days to respond. She will remain in the cabinet as the new culture minister following a recent reshuffle. From Thursday, Suriya is set to be superseded as acting leader by incoming interior minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
“Government work doesn’t stop, there is no problem,” said Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong, who is also secretary general of Paetongtarn’s Pheu Thai Party.