BANGKOK — Thailand’s Constitutional Court has suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra while it reviews a petition by 36 senators accusing her of breaching ethical standards over a leaked call with Cambodia’s former PM Hun Sen.

Caretaker PM:

Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit, a seasoned politician, will act as interim leader during the suspension.

Legal Proceedings:

Paetongtarn has 15 days to respond to the allegations. The court will continue proceedings after her response.

Cabinet Role:

Despite the suspension, Paetongtarn is set to become Minister of Culture and may attend cabinet meetings in that role after her July 3 swearing-in.

Parliament & Political Fallout:

Parliament reconvenes on July 3. A planned no-confidence motion may be delayed due to her suspension. Support from key opposition parties remains uncertain.

Additional Investigations:

The National Anti-Corruption Commission is also investigating Paetongtarn over the same leaked call, which could lead to a Supreme Court case and possible political ban.

Public Unrest:

Thousands protested in Bangkok recently, demanding her resignation. Demonstrators have vowed to escalate if she doesn’t step down.

Thaksin’s Legal Troubles:

Meanwhile, her father, former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, faces a lese majeste charge and court scrutiny over his extended hospital stay instead of prison. A ruling could send him to jail.