Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was suspended from duty by Thailand’s Constitutional Court on Tuesday while a petition was pending to have her dismissed. This move increased pressure on a government that is struggling to survive and facing several criticisms.
The court heard a petition from 36 senators accusing Paetongtarn of corrupt practices and violating the constitution by leaking a politically sensitive phone conversation with Hun Sen, the powerful former leader of Cambodia.
“The court has considered the petition …. and unanimously accepts the case for consideration,” the statement read.
Suriya Juangroongruangkit, the deputy prime minister, would assume caretaker duties while the court renders a decision against Paetongtarn.
