Thailand’s Constitutional Court on Wednesday ousted Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin from his position due to a breach of the constitution regarding a cabinet appointment. The court determined that Srettha had significantly violated ethical regulations due to his appointment of a lawyer with a controversial past to his cabinet.
The legal challenge was initiated by a group of former senators questioning the appointment of Pichit Chuenban, who had a brief incarceration in 2008 for alleged contempt of court related to a bribery accusation against court personnel, although the allegation was never proven. Srettha, a prominent real estate magnate, has refuted any misconduct and defended the vetting process of Pichit, emphasizing the transparency of the appointment.
The Constitutional Court voted 5 to 4 to oust the Thai PM from his duty.
Srettha’s swift removal from power has necessitated parliament to gather and select a new premier, while Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is anticipated to assume the role of caretaker Prime Minister.
