Thailand’s Ongoing Political Instability: Srettha Becomes Fourth PM Removed in 16 Years

Thailand’s political landscape has been thrown into turmoil once again after Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin was removed from office by the Constitutional Court. This removal marks the fourth time in 16 years that a Thai prime minister has been ousted by the court, highlighting the ongoing political instability in the country.

The Appointment That Cost Srettha His Position

The Constitutional Court ruled that Srettha’s appointment of former lawyer Pichit Chuenban as a minister fell short of moral and ethical standards. Pichit had been convicted of contempt of court in 2008 and served a six-month jail sentence. The court’s decision was based on a petition submitted by 40 senators.

Unanticipated Ruling

Srettha, who did not attend the court hearing, expressed surprise at the ruling. He stated that he had acted with good intentions and had not anticipated the decision. Pichit resigned from his ministerial role on Tuesday to protect Srettha, but it was not enough to prevent the prime minister’s removal.

A History of Political Turmoil

Srettha’s removal is the latest chapter in Thailand’s tumultuous political history. In the past 20 years, the country has faced political parties being dissolved, multiple governments brought down, and military coups. The Constitutional Court has played a significant role in this instability, with previous verdicts removing other prime ministers.

Impact on Political Parties

Srettha’s removal significantly impacts Thailand’s political landscape. Parliament will convene to choose a new prime minister, potentially leading to further uncertainty. The opposition Move Forward Party, which was recently dissolved by the Constitutional Court, has regrouped under a new name.

Srettha’s removal could also disrupt a fragile truce between former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his rivals. The truce allowed Thaksin to return from exile and helped Srettha become prime minister.

Potential Successors

Pheu Thai Party, of which Srettha was a member, will meet to decide its candidate for prime minister. Potential candidates include Thaksin’s daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who could become Thailand’s third Shinawatra prime minister if successful.

Other potential candidates include Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, and influential former army chief Prawit Wongsuwan, who has been involved in previous coups.

Conclusion

Thailand’s political instability continues with the removal of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The country faces an uncertain future as parliament prepares to choose a new prime minister and political parties navigate shifting alliances. The ongoing political turmoil underscores the challenges Thailand faces in achieving long-term stability and democratic governance.