Pheu Thai Party Unprepared in Case of Unfavorable Court Decision Regarding Prime Minister

The suspense surrounding the future of suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra thickens as she awaits the ruling of the Constitutional Court. The court is currently deliberating on a petition seeking her suspension, accusing her of lacking qualifications and integrity under Sections 160 (4) and (5) of the Constitution.

The case at hand centres on an audio clip of a conversation between Ms. Paetongtarn and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, which some claim may violate constitutional ethics provisions. The author of the proposal to the Constitutional Court demanding an investigation into this controversial phone call is not publicly specified.

Meanwhile, the Pheu Thai Party, led by PM's Office Minister and Pheu Thai list-MP Chousak Sirinil, is adopting a wait-and-see approach. Preparations are underway at Pheu Thai Party headquarters to broadcast the Constitutional Court's ruling live. Pheu Thai MPs are expected to arrive at party headquarters at about 2pm to follow the ruling.

Supporters of the Pheu Thai Party have gathered, wearing red shirts with Ms. Paetongtarn's image and the phrase "31st Prime Minister". The party cafeteria has been converted into a viewing area for media, supporters, and party members. A television set up at the party headquarters will broadcast the court's decision at 3pm.

The complaint also alleges that Ms. Paetongtarn lacks honesty and engages in conduct that constitutes a grave breach of ethical standards, based on the audio clip discussing Thai-Cambodian border issues with Hun Sen.

Mr. Chusak, as a former law lecturer, confirmed that intent is central to legal interpretation, including in political cases. He affirmed that intent is a fundamental principle in both civil and criminal law, and that actions done without malicious intent are not inherently wrong.

The 2nd Army supervises the border with Cambodia from Sa Kaeo to Ubon Ratchathani, including the four contested areas at the centre of the current dispute between the two countries. Despite the ongoing political turmoil, Mr. Chusak dismissed the notion that Thai politics is approaching a dead end.

Some interpreted a recent photo showing Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul alongside Palang Pracharath Party leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwon as a political signal, but Mr. Chusak downplayed the speculation. He mentioned that all parties had emphasized national interest and goodwill, which he considered a positive sign.

The suspended prime minister is scheduled to arrive at Government House at 2pm to await the ruling and address the media. The Pheu Thai Party, for now, has not made preparations in the event of an unfavorable ruling regarding the suspended prime minister's tenure.

As the clock ticks closer to 3pm, the nation holds its breath, waiting for the Constitutional Court's decision that will shape the course of Thai politics.

Pheu Thai Party Unprepared in Case of Unfavorable Court Decision Regarding Prime Minister