Thailand's Suspended Prime Minister Takes Oath Amid Controversy

BANGKOK (AP) — In a significant political development, Thailand's new Cabinet members, including the suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, took their oaths of office on Thursday. This swearing-in ceremony took place amidst an ongoing ethics investigation concerning her conduct during a diplomatic encounter with a senior Cambodian leader.

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was suspended from her position on Tuesday, was present at the Government House for the ceremony, which was led by Acting Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit. The event was notable not only for the new appointments but also for the surrounding political turbulence, as the King of Thailand, Maha Vajiralongkorn, officially endorsed the new Cabinet lineup, which includes Shinawatra as the Minister of Culture.

Despite her smile upon arriving at the Government House, Paetongtarn refrained from addressing the media. She faces scrutiny following a leaked phone conversation with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, where her attempts to ease tensions over a border dispute escalated into public outcry and protests. Critics argued that her engagement with Hun Sen undermined Thailand's international standing and national image.

The Constitutional Court unanimously agreed to review a petition alleging that Paetongtarn committed an ethical breach, leading to her immediate suspension pending the court's ruling. She has been granted 15 days to present evidence supporting her position, although the timeline for the court's decision remains uncertain.

Alongside Paetongtarn, Acting Prime Minister Suriya is expected to delegate his responsibilities to Phumtham Wechayachai, who was sworn in as Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister. Wechayachai previously held the position of Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister during Paetongtarn's tenure.

The situation reflects a complex intersection of governance and diplomacy in Thailand, particularly regarding its relations with Cambodia. The recent armed confrontation, which resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier, has further complicated matters, adding pressure to the new Cabinet as it seeks to navigate these diplomatic waters amidst domestic challenges.

As Thailand enters this new chapter in its political landscape, the implications of Paetongtarn's suspension and the Cabinet's composition will be closely monitored both domestically and internationally. The outcomes of the ongoing investigations and the Cabinet's ability to effectively govern will likely shape the future of Thai politics in the coming months.