BANGKOK – Thailand witnessed a dramatic reshuffling of leadership this week, with its third prime minister stepping into the role in just seven days. The turmoil followed a court ruling that suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, thrusting the country into political uncertainty amid economic challenges and regional tensions.

Court Suspension Triggers Leadership Upheaval

On Tuesday, the Constitutional Court of Thailand suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra pending an investigation into alleged breaches of ministerial ethics. The case stems from her controversial handling of a sensitive territorial dispute with neighboring Cambodia, which recently escalated into cross-border violence.

In her absence, power was briefly transferred to Transport Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit. However, his tenure as acting prime minister lasted just one full day due to a cabinet reshuffle that placed him lower in the line of authority.

Phumtham Wechayachai Sworn In as Acting Prime Minister

On Thursday morning, King Maha Vajiralongkorn swore in former Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai as Interior Minister and Deputy Prime Minister. As he now outranks Suriya in the cabinet hierarchy, Phumtham has officially assumed the role of acting prime minister.

The Thai government confirmed Phumtham’s appointment on social media following the first meeting of the newly approved cabinet. Paetongtarn, although suspended, retains her seat as Culture Minister in the cabinet she previously formed, maintaining a degree of political influence.

Authority to Dissolve Parliament Acknowledged

In a public statement, Acting Prime Minister Phumtham acknowledged he holds constitutional powers, including the authority to dissolve parliament. However, he clarified that there have been “no concrete discussions” regarding the exercise of this power at this time.

Concerns remain over the functioning of the government, with Chousak Sirinil, Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, warning that while the ruling Pheu Thai Party has remained active in 90% of parliamentary sessions, coalition tensions could pose problems ahead.

Diplomatic Crisis and Coalition Fallout

The political crisis stems in part from Paetongtarn’s handling of a longstanding territorial dispute with Cambodia, which flared into violent clashes in May. According to a leaked diplomatic recording, she referred to Cambodian former leader Hun Sen as “uncle” and labeled a senior Thai military commander her “opponent” — sparking outrage and accusations of disrespect towards the Thai armed forces.

A conservative party promptly exited the ruling coalition, accusing Paetongtarn of “kowtowing” to Cambodia and compromising national security. This defection precipitated the cabinet reshuffle that ultimately saw her suspended.

The Constitutional Court ruled there was “sufficient cause to suspect” that her behavior violated ministerial ethics, setting the stage for a potentially prolonged legal battle.

‘Big Comrade’ Returns to the Helm

Phumtham, known as “Big Comrade” due to his early involvement in a leftist youth movement during the 1970s, is a long-time ally of Paetongtarn and her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Though loyal to the Shinawatra dynasty, analysts suggest that the family’s political dominance is now waning after decades of rivalry with pro-military conservative forces.

Phumtham brings experience from previous roles as Defence and Commerce Minister, as well as a prior stint as acting premier during last year’s crisis. His leadership comes as Thailand seeks to stabilize its governance, revive its sluggish economy, and secure a crucial U.S. trade deal threatened by looming tariffs from former President Donald Trump’s administration.

Looking Ahead

With no clear timeline for the conclusion of Paetongtarn’s ethics probe, Phumtham’s interim leadership could stretch for months. The possibility of dissolving parliament remains on the table, though political analysts warn that any drastic moves could further destabilize Thailand’s fragile coalition government and risk igniting public unrest.

The country now watches closely as “Big Comrade” attempts to steer Thailand through one of its most turbulent political periods in recent history.