Bangkok, August 29, 2025 — Thailand’s Constitutional Court has dismissed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office, delivering a stunning blow to both her government and the powerful Shinawatra political dynasty. The ruling comes just over a year after she rose to power, marking yet another abrupt leadership change in the country’s turbulent political history.
The Case Against Paetongtarn
The court’s decision stemmed from a controversial phone call in June between Paetongtarn and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, during which she referred to him as “uncle” and criticized a senior Thai military general. The leaked recording ignited fierce criticism, with opponents accusing her of compromising national security and favoring personal ties over official duty.
Judges ruled that her conduct violated ethical standards expected of the nation’s highest office, declaring her actions “damaging to the dignity and credibility of the premiership.”
A Dynasty Under Pressure
Paetongtarn’s removal highlights the precarious position of the Shinawatra family, one of Thailand’s most influential political dynasties. Both her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra were ousted by either court rulings or military interventions in previous years.
Her dismissal now makes her the third Shinawatra family member to be forced from office, raising questions about whether the dynasty can continue to dominate Thai politics in the face of recurring institutional resistance.
Interim Leadership
Following the ruling, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has stepped in as acting leader. His caretaker government will oversee the country until parliament elects a new prime minister.
The parliamentary vote is expected to be highly contentious, as coalition members remain divided and the ruling Pheu Thai Party has seen its majority weakened by the withdrawal of key partners earlier this year.
Who Could Take the Helm?
Several names are emerging as potential successors:
- Chaikasem Nitisiri, a former attorney-general known for his measured approach.
- Anutin Charnvirakul, the leader of Bhumjaithai Party, once popular for his cannabis policy reforms.
- Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, the current Energy Minister with a strong network but lingering corruption concerns.
- Jurin Laksanawisit, a veteran politician from the Democrat Party, though his influence is limited.
Parliamentary arithmetic will play a decisive role, as any candidate must secure nearly half of the 492 lawmakers’ votes to succeed.
Uncertain Future
Thailand’s political climate remains fragile. Economic growth has slowed, coalition unity is fraying, and public frustration over repeated leadership crises is intensifying. Analysts warn that if lawmakers fail to find consensus soon, new elections could be called, potentially deepening instability.
Conclusion
Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s downfall underscores Thailand’s ongoing cycle of political volatility. While her removal is seen by critics as a necessary step to preserve ethical governance, her supporters view it as yet another setback engineered against the Shinawatra legacy.
As the country awaits the selection of its next leader, Thailand stands at a crossroads — caught between the weight of dynastic politics, institutional pushback, and a restless public yearning for stability.
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