Thailand’s Constitutional Court Permanently Ousts Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra

BANGKOK, Aug. 30, 2025 - Thailand’s Constitutional Court has permanently removed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office, ruling that she violated the nation’s ethical standards during a leaked telephone conversation with Cambodia’s former leader, Hun Sen.

In a 6-3 split decision, the nine-judge panel concluded that Paetongtarn displayed a “lack of demonstrable honesty and integrity,” breaching Sections 106(4), 106(5) and 170(1)(4) of the constitution. The court found that her remarks-referring to Heng Samrin as “uncle” and criticising a senior Thai military commander-compromised national interests amid an escalating border dispute.

Paetongtarn, 39, who became Thailand’s youngest prime minister in August 2024, was suspended on July 1 pending the court’s verdict. The ruling also dissolves her cabinet, triggering a parliamentary vote to elect her successor. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai will serve as acting prime minister until the selection process concludes.

Observers warn the decision deepens political instability in Thailand, where five premiers have now been ousted by judicial or military interventions since 2006. Paetongtarn’s removal underscores the enduring influence of unelected institutions in Thai politics and raises questions over the future direction of Pheu Thai, the party founded by her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

Thailand’s parliament is expected to convene next week to nominate and vote on a new prime minister, with Chaikasem Nitisiri-Pheu Thai’s only remaining eligible candidate-among the frontrunners.