Will Thailand PM lose his post? Court ruling on Srettha Thavisin dismissal case today

Thailand’s constitutional court is poised to make a crucial decision on the future of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, potentially removing him from office after less than a year in power. This ruling could deepen the country’s ongoing political turmoil.

Complaint against Srettha Thavisin

The case against Srettha, a real estate tycoon with no prior political experience, stems from a complaint filed by former senators appointed by the previous military government. They allege that Srettha violated the constitution by appointing Pichit Chuenban, a former lawyer with a past imprisonment, to a cabinet position.

Chuenban was briefly jailed in 2008 for contempt of court related to an alleged attempt to bribe court staff, though these allegations were never substantiated.

Political consequences of possible removal

If the court decides to remove Srettha, the 500-seat parliament will need to convene to elect a new prime minister. This scenario could lead to further instability in a country that has experienced frequent coups and court rulings toppling multiple governments and political parties over the past two decades.

Recent developments

In a recent move, the court dissolved the anti-establishment Move Forward Party, which had been a popular opposition force. The court ruled that the party’s campaign to reform a law against insulting the monarchy posed a threat to the constitutional monarchy. The Move Forward Party regrouped on Friday under a new name.

Srettha’s response & economic concerns

On the eve of the verdict, Srettha defended his actions and expressed his commitment to addressing the people’s needs.

“We’ve done our best and have submitted closing statements. I’ve set up plans based on the people’s needs and the care-taking PM can consider them,” he stated.

The ruling comes at a challenging time for Thailand’s economy, which Srettha has struggled to stimulate. The government has projected a modest growth rate of 2.7 per cent for 2024, and the country’s stock market has underperformed, down approximately 17 per cent year-to-date.

Possible transition of power

Should Srettha be removed, Deputy Premier Phumtham Wechayachai would assume the role of caretaker prime minister.

Despite potential short-term impacts on confidence, political experts suggest that Srettha’s party, Pheu Thai, would likely retain the influence to lead the next administration.

“The government will still have 314 seats – the coalition remains united,” said Olarn Thinbangtieo, deputy dean of Burapha University’s Faculty of Political Science and Law. “There may be some impact on confidence, but that would be in the short term.”

Potential Thailand prime ministerial candidates

If a new prime minister is required, candidates from the last election could be nominated. These include Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of Pheu Thai and daughter of billionaire Thaksin Shinawatra; former justice minister Chaikasem Nitisiri; Interior Minister and Deputy Premier Anutin Charnvirakul; Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga; and Prawit Wongsuwon, a former army chief.

With inputs from agencies.