Thailand's Pheu Thai Faces Political Turmoil as New PM Vote Looms

Thailand's caretaker government is scrambling to select a new prime minister after the dismissal of Srettha Thavisin by the Constitutional Court. The decision has thrust the Pheu Thai Party into crisis mode, as they race to secure parliamentary vote support amidst an economic downturn. Two PM candidates have emerged: Chaikasem Nitisiri and Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

In a rapidly evolving political landscape, Thailand's caretaker government met on Thursday to choose a successor for the dismissed premier Srettha Thavisin. The Pheu Thai Party is under pressure to shore up alliances ahead of a crucial parliamentary vote scheduled for Friday. This comes just one day after the Constitutional Court removed Srettha from office.

The court's decision has thrown the country into yet another political drama, reminiscent of past upheavals involving the powerful Shinawatra family. Srettha was ousted for breaching ethical standards by appointing Thaksin Shinawatra's former lawyer to a cabinet post. The Pheu Thai Party, founded by billionaire Thaksin Shinawatra, now has to decide between two prime ministerial candidates: Chaikasem Nitisiri, a seasoned attorney, and Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin's 37-year-old daughter.

With the economy already under strain, the Pheu Thai Party is racing against time. The Secretary-General of Pheu Thai, Sorawong Thienthong, expressed optimism that a new government could be formed within three weeks. However, party leaders acknowledge the risk of backlash and further political instability. All eyes are on Friday's parliamentary vote, which will determine the next leader amidst Thailand's turbulent political landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)