Thailand’s defence ministry has affirmed that the absence of a formal government will not compromise border security with Cambodia, as the nation grapples with a political crisis following the Constitutional Court’s dismissal of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
The court’s ruling on Thursday, August 29, cited Paetongtarn’s failure to uphold ethical standards in handling a border dispute with Cambodia, plunging the Southeast Asian nation into uncertainty.
The decision has left Thailand under the stewardship of Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and a caretaker Cabinet, which will remain in place until a new government is formed, potentially as early as next week. On Friday morning, the acting Cabinet convened a special meeting to confirm this interim arrangement, with no significant policy announcements made.
Deputy Defence Minister Natthapon Nakpanich reassured reporters that the transitional government would not undermine Thailand’s ability to protect its sovereignty, particularly amid a delicate ceasefire along the Cambodian border. “It’s not a problem. The army chief has already assigned responsibilities to handle specific situations,” he stated, emphasizing the military’s preparedness to maintain stability.
The court’s ruling stemmed from Paetongtarn’s conduct during a June phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen, which was leaked online. The billionaire daughter of ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra faced accusations of failing to robustly defend Thailand’s interests, leading to her suspension from office in July and eventual dismissal.
