In a stunning turn of events, Thailand’s top court has suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office, igniting a political firestorm across the nation. This drastic action follows a leaked phone call between Shinawatra and former Cambodian leader Hun Sen, which has raised serious allegations of constitutional violations and ethical breaches. The court’s decision comes after 36 senators petitioned for her removal, accusing her of dishonesty during the controversial conversation that revolved around a deadly border clash between Thailand and Cambodia.

The fallout from this scandal has been swift and intense, with thousands rallying in Bangkok over the weekend demanding Shinawatra’s ousting. Critics are enraged, claiming she displayed undue familiarity with Hun Sen and prioritized familial ties over national interests. The leaked call, which criticized the Thai military’s role in escalating tensions, has only fueled the public’s outrage.

As the constitutional court moves forward with its investigation, Shinawatra has been suspended from her duties, leaving a power vacuum that could plunge Thailand into deeper political chaos. With two prime ministers already ousted in recent months and uncertainty looming over the ruling coalition, many are questioning the stability of the nation’s democratic future. Speculation about a potential military coup is rising, as the court’s actions seem to undermine elected leadership more effectively than any military intervention.

Shinawatra now has 15 days to defend herself, maintaining that her intentions were in the best interests of Thailand. Meanwhile, her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, faces his own legal battles, accused of royal defamation—a stark reminder of the perilous political landscape in Thailand. As the nation holds its breath, the implications of this suspension could reverberate far beyond the courtroom, threatening to reshape Thailand’s political landscape once again.