Thai PM Suspended Amid Political Turmoil
Thailand’s political scene is in upheaval as the Constitutional Court suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, intensifying existing power struggles and raising concerns about democratic stability. The move follows a petition questioning her fitness for office.
Court Decision and Allegations
The Constitutional Court, composed of nine members, unanimously agreed to review the petition against Paetongtarn Shinawatra. A 7-2 vote led to her suspension pending a final ruling, which could take months. She faces accusations that could lead to her removal, similar to the ousting of former PM Srettha Thavisin last August on ethics charges.
The Contentious Phone Call
The controversy stems from a leaked phone call between Paetongtarn and former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, where they discussed a border dispute that led to a military clash in May, resulting in a Cambodian soldier’s death. Opponents claim Paetongtarn made Thailand appear weak, using this as grounds for what some see as a judicial coup.
Senatorial Action and Political Alignments
Thirty-six senators, led by Senate President Mongkol Surasajja, submitted the petition to the Constitutional Court, a body with ties to the military since the 2014 coup. Mongkol is associated with the “blue faction,” linked to the right-wing Bhumjaithai Party (BJT). The BJT’s departure from the ruling coalition weakened the Pheu Thai-led government’s majority.
“Yellow Shirt” Protests
A right-wing protest in Bangkok, led by the “Yellow Shirts”—supporters of the monarchy, army, and bureaucracy—demanded Paetongtarn’s resignation. Media mogul Sondhi Limthongkul, a Yellow Shirt leader, hinted at military intervention, recalling their role in the 2006 coup against Thaksin Shinawatra, Paetongtarn’s father.
Economic and Geopolitical Context
This crisis isn’t solely about a phone call; it highlights tensions within Thailand’s ruling class amid economic decline and geopolitical pressures. The potential imposition of a 36% tariff on Thai exports to the U.S. by **Trump** adds to the uncertainty.
Rise of Pheu Thai and Military Influence
Pheu Thai gained power through a shaky coalition after the 2023 election, only the second since the 2014 coup that ousted Yingluck Shinawatra’s government. Despite attempts to manage public sentiment, the military, through its control of the senate and alliances, blocked the Move Forward Party (MFP) from forming a government.
Compromises and Coalitions
Pheu Thai formed a coalition with military-aligned parties, including the United Thai Nation Party and the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), later replaced by the Democrat Party. As part of this deal, Thaksin Shinawatra returned to Thailand after self-imposed exile, facing reduced jail time on corruption charges. In 2024, Thailand’s economy grew by only 1.5%, the slowest rate in Southeast Asia, highlighting the economic pressures influencing political instability (World Bank).
Legal Challenges for Thaksin
Thaksin faces additional charges, including lèse-majesté, linked to a 2015 interview. He appeared in court the same day Paetongtarn was suspended. A conviction for lèse-majesté carries a lengthy prison sentence.
Pheu Thai’s Response and Opposition Dynamics
Pheu Thai has not resisted anti-democratic measures, fearing mass opposition more than the military. Similarly, the MFP didn’t defend itself when dissolved, with its leader urging supporters to move on. The party was reestablished as the People’s Party (PP).
PP’s Stance and Potential Alliances
The PP supports Paetongtarn’s suspension, echoing the Yellow Shirts’ stance. They are also negotiating with the Bhumjaithai Party, potentially supporting Anutin Charnvirakul for prime minister in exchange for constitutional reforms.
Lack of Democratic Defense
The actions of the PP and Pheu Thai demonstrate that the ruling class isn’t defending democratic rights. The responsibility to defend basic democratic and social rights falls to the working class in the struggle for socialism.
