Political Drama: Thailand PM Suspended Amid Crisis
Thailand's PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra is suspended by the Constitutional Court pending a case over an alleged breach of ethical standards linked to a leaked call with Cambodia's former leader. The scandal strains her coalition and popularity while her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, faces legal issues. The political tension heightens in Thailand.

In a significant political development, Thailand's Constitutional Court has suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra amid ongoing legal proceedings. The suspension heightens the tumult facing her administration following allegations from 36 senators accusing her of breaching ethical standards during a sensitive phone call with Cambodia's former leader Hun Sen.
During the June 15 call, aimed at easing border tensions, Paetongtarn allegedly critiqued a Thai army commander in a move seen as negotiating strategy, but backfired, causing public outrage. This led to a near breakdown of her ruling coalition and calls for a no-confidence vote in parliament, while she takes on the role of culture minister amid a cabinet reshuffle.
The political crisis deepens within the Shinawatra family as Paetongtarn's father, Thaksin, faces legal challenges. Thaksin's legal battles are rooted in past controversies, including allegations of royal insult, for which he appeared in court this week. As a divisive figure in Thai politics, Thaksin's legal woes compound the pressure on the Shinawatra-led government.
(With inputs from agencies.)