The Constitutional Court has decided to remove Srettha from office with a vote of 5 to 4 due to his appointment of someone involved in a bribery scandal to the cabinet. The cabinet will remain in office temporarily until a new prime minister is elected. Phumtham Wechayachai from the Pheu Thai party is expected to be appointed as the interim prime minister. Various candidates are emerging for the position of the new prime minister. These include Paetongtarn Shinawatra from the Pheu Thai Party, Anutin Charnvirakul, the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, and former military officials Prayuth Chan-ocha and Prawit Wongsuwan. Srettha stated that he respects the decision and has tried to behave ethically during his time in office. The court considered Srettha's appointment of Pichit Chuenban to the ministry as an ethical violation. Pichit had previously served time in prison for attempting to bribe a judge. This case reflects the political rivalries in Thailand. Courts and some state institutions are seen as being used to weaken political opponents. Despite his party coming in second in the elections, Srettha became prime minister in August last year. This development highlights the complex balances and power struggles in Thai politics.
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