Thailand Awaits Court Ruling on PM Srettha Thavisin's Political Fate

Thailand's Constitutional Court is set to decide on Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's future, amid allegations he violated the constitution. His potential removal could cause further political instability. The ruling follows the dissolution of the Move Forward Party, highlighting the ongoing tension between political factions and the conservative establishment.

Thailand's Constitutional Court will on Wednesday determine the fate of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, potentially ending his term less than a year after taking office, and plunging the nation into heightened political instability.

Srettha faces allegations from ex-senators, appointed by a former military government, that he violated the constitution by appointing a former lawyer with a criminal past to his cabinet. Should he be dismissed, Thailand's 500-seat parliament will need to convene to choose a new premier, threatening more upheaval in a country consistently unsettled by coups and court rulings over the past two decades.

Amid this turbulent political landscape, the court recently dissolved the popular opposition Move Forward Party over its campaign to amend a law perceived as undermining the monarchy. The decision also tests a fragile truce that allowed the return of political heavyweight Thaksin Shinawatra from self-exile and saw Srettha become premier. Deputy premier Phumtham Wechayachai would step in as caretaker if Srettha is removed, though Pheu Thai may still have strong influence in leading the next government.

(With inputs from agencies.)