Photo courtesy of MCI Group

 

Thailand's political turmoil deepened today following the Constitutional Court's firm rejection of claims against its decision to dismiss former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Despite arguments over a judge's expired term, the court maintained its ruling was legally sound.

 

The court's original verdict on August 29 accused Paetongtarn of ethical misconduct tied to a leaked conversation with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen. While the decision stands, it remains a lightning rod for controversy.

 

A faction of 20 Pheu Thai MPs, led by government whip Visuth Chainaroon, has urged House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha to address their grievances with the court. They contend that Judge Panya Udchachon, whose tenure ended just as the ruling was delivered, should have refrained from the case.

 

Sarawut Songsivilai was appointed as Panya’s successor on August 29 by royal command. The MPs assert that Panya should have withdrawn, especially given the serious nature of ousting a sitting prime minister.

 

Although the 2018 organic law allows outgoing judges to remain until their successors are installed, Pheu Thai MPs argue that this provision should not apply when deciding the premiership.

 

A Constitutional Court insider countered, explaining that Sarawut had not yet taken the oath of office, making him ineligible to participate. Additionally, the royal command had yet to appear in the Royal Gazette, legally permitting Panya to continue his role under current statutes.

 

Section 16 of the Constitution states that judges must take a formal oath before beginning their duties. Without this step, newly appointed judges cannot join deliberations.

 

"The ruling against Paetongtarn is valid," affirmed a court source, quashing rumours of a potential reversal.

 

The Pheu Thai MPs’ petition also demands clarity on the delay in the royal command's publication, implying that timing may have been manipulated to facilitate Panya's involvement.

 

This dispute risks further polarising Thailand’s already fraught political scene, with accusations from critics that the court has manipulated constitutional norms while government supporters decry perceived judicial overreach.

 

As tensions rise, this legal battle highlights the fragile balance of power and the deeply rooted divisions within Thai politics. With no immediate resolution in sight, the nation watches closely, aware that the ramifications of this decision may impact its political landscape for years to come.

 

With passions flaring on both sides, Thailand’s political future remains uncertain, as the debate over judicial legitimacy and executive power continues to unfold, reflecting broader societal divisions.

 

The financial implications of this political turmoil also provide a stark reminder of the real-world impact, with potential economic instability looming. Political analysts warn that prolonged uncertainty could affect investment and confidence, posing risks to the country's economic stability.

 

As events develop, all eyes remain fixed on the court, the government, and the public's response, as each navigates this complex and high-stakes environment.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-09-03

 

 

there were not very loud arguments from the Shina band....It was to good to be true.... they were preparing something in the background and they found/fabricated something, luckily it didn't go their way, what a bunch of crooks they are

 

they couldn't come up with anything better then .... a judge's expired term,

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Although the 2018 organic law allows outgoing judges to remain until their successors are installed, Pheu Thai MPs argue that this provision should not apply when deciding the premiership

Nice try... you're out 

You can't fight a higher power in Thailand...

17 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Although the 2018 organic law allows outgoing judges to remain until their successors are installed, Pheu Thai MPs argue that this provision should not apply when deciding the premiership.

Pheu Thai MPs squirming

On 9/3/2025 at 4:34 PM, snoop1130 said:

Although the 2018 organic law allows outgoing judges to remain until their successors are installed, Pheu Thai MPs argue that this provision should not apply when deciding the premiership.

 

That's a kindergarten argument, not a legal argument. 

20 hours ago, hotchilli said:

Nice try... you're out 

 

Back home to screaming kids, god, what a life.