Thailand's Prime Minister Dismissed for Ethics Violation, Plunging Nation into Political Turmoil

Thailand's Constitutional Court has removed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin from office for appointing a minister with a criminal record, sparking concerns of political instability and a potential shakeup in the governing alliance. The verdict, the fourth of its kind in 16 years, highlights the significant role the judiciary has played in Thailand's ongoing political crisis.

Thailand's political landscape was thrown into disarray on Wednesday as the Constitutional Court dismissed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, ruling that he had "grossly" violated ethical standards by appointing a minister with a criminal record. The decision has raised the specter of political upheaval and a major shakeup within the governing alliance.

Thailand's Prime Minister Dismissed for Ethics Violation, Plunging Nation into Political Turmoil

Srettha's removal marks the fourth time in 16 years that a Thai prime minister has been removed by court verdict, underscoring the central role the judiciary has played in the country's long-running political crisis. The court's ruling stems from Srettha's appointment of Thaksin's former lawyer Pichit Chuenban to the cabinet, despite Chuenban's prior imprisonment for contempt of court.

The complaint against Srettha was lodged by 40 former senators appointed by the military after the 2014 coup against Pheu Thai's previous government. The court ruled 5-4 in favor of dismissing Srettha, finding that he had failed to perform his duty with integrity and had "grossly breached ethical standards."

Thailand's Prime Minister Dismissed for Ethics Violation, Plunging Nation into Political Turmoil

Srettha's dismissal has plunged Thailand into uncertainty, as parliament must now choose a new prime minister by Friday. The Pheu Thai Party, the largest in the coalition, has moved quickly to shore up its alliance and will meet on Thursday to select its candidate for prime minister.

The political turmoil comes at a challenging time for Thailand's economy, which is struggling with weak exports, consumer spending, and high household debt. Analysts have warned that Srettha's removal could further damage confidence and stall key economic policies, such as his 500 billion baht cash handout plan.

Srettha has expressed disappointment with the court's decision and has indicated that the next government may change his policy agenda. The ruling could also disrupt a fragile truce between political heavyweight Thaksin Shinawatra and his enemies among the conservative elite and military old guard, which had allowed Thaksin to return from exile in 2023 and ally Srettha to become prime minister.

Pheu Thai is likely to retain its position as the leading party in the next administration, but it remains unclear who will take over as prime minister. Potential candidates include former Justice Minister Chaikasem Nitisiri, the party's inexperienced leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra, acting Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, and Prawit Wongsuwan, a former army chief involved in two coups.

The United States has stated that it remains committed to its alliance with Thailand and looks forward to a smooth transition of power. The political uncertainty in Thailand is expected to continue until a new prime minister is chosen and a stable government is formed.