Sat Aug 30 16:28:49 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Thailand is in political turmoil after the Constitutional Court dismissed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for violating ethical codes related to a border dispute with Cambodia. An acting Prime Minister and caretaker cabinet are in place until a new government is formed, potentially next week. The Defence Ministry assures that border security with Cambodia remains intact despite the political instability. This follows recent deadly clashes between Thailand and Cambodia along their border. Parliament will vote on a new prime minister, but eligible candidates are limited.

**News Article:**

**Thailand in Political Turmoil as Prime Minister Dismissed**

**Bangkok, Thailand – August 30, 2025** – Thailand is grappling with a political crisis following the dismissal of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra by the Constitutional Court. The court ruled on Friday that Ms. Shinawatra violated ethical standards in her handling of a border dispute with Cambodia.

The ruling has created a power vacuum, with acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and a caretaker cabinet assuming temporary leadership until a new government can be formed. A special cabinet meeting was held on Saturday to confirm the transition.

Despite the political uncertainty, Deputy Defence Minister Natthapon Nakpanich assured the public that border security with Cambodia remains secure. “It’s not a problem,” he stated, adding that the army chief has assigned responsibilities to manage the situation.

The dismissal stems from accusations that Ms. Shinawatra failed to adequately defend Thailand’s interests during a leaked phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen. This incident followed deadly clashes between Thailand and Cambodia in July, resulting in over 40 deaths and 300,000 displaced individuals. A ceasefire was agreed upon at the end of July.

Parliament is expected to vote on a new prime minister as early as next week. However, the pool of eligible candidates is limited, as only those nominated during the 2023 general election are considered. Several potential candidates are ineligible due to court orders or insufficient parliamentary representation.

The potential candidates include Prayut Chan-O-Cha, the ex-general who led the 2014 coup, and Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai party.

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