Bangkok Buzz: The CK‑Court Unplugs Prayuth Chan‑Ocha
What just happened? The Constitutional Court has put the top Thai command into a holding pen. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan‑Ocha is temporarily out of office while the court sorts out whether he’s stuck on the political “red‑card” for tampering with term limits.
How the news broke
- ThaiPBS, Khaosod, and Workpoint chimed in with the same headline, but they didn’t quote a source.
- Reuters reached out, but the PM’s office and other officials were tight‑fisted and didn’t confirm the scoop.
- Heads up: the court should send an official statement soon, so the formal “yeah‑or‑no” will appear on your screen tomorrow.
Who’s the backup plan?
After a 2014 coup that booted an elected government, Prayuth filled the top seat. Now, if he’s sidelined, the long‑time political kingmaker Prawit Wongsuwan – a 77‑year‑old former army chief – is poised to step up as the interim PM, according to the cabinet line‑of‑succession chart.
Why it matters
- Democracy’s rule‑of‑law test – can a political heavy‑hand stay in power forever?
- The country’s political rhythm could shift if the interim PM takes a different direction.
- It’s a reminder: no one can outmaneuver Thailand’s constitutional watchdog.
So buckle up, Bangkok. The next chapter in Thai politics is about to get written, and the court’s verdict will decide the plot twist.
