(KPL/VNA) Suspended Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra appeared at the Constitutional Court on August 21 to attend a witness hearing in a case filed by 36 senators, seeking a ruling on her removal from the premiership.

The case stems from allegations of a serious ethical breach after the release of an audio recording of a conversation between Paetongtarn and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen.

Before the hearing, Constitutional Court President Nakharin Mektrairat announced that, given the case’s implications for national security, the court would prohibit the broadcasting of images and audios during witness testimony. He also barred attendees from disseminating or distorting any details of the hearing that could mislead the public.

On the petitioner’s side, the Senate appointed representatives to appear in court, including Gen Sawat Tasana, Pol Maj Gen Chatthawat Saengphet.

Paetongtarn appeared in person as the respondent, accompanied by witness Chatchai Bangchuad, Secretary-General of the National Security Council.

The court appointed Wiroon Sangtian and Noppadon Theppitak to conduct the hearing, while other Constitutional Court judges were authorised to cross-examine.

This witness examination marks a crucial stage before the court sets the date for closing statements on August 27 and delivers its ruling on August 29, a verdict that will decide the political future of Thailand’s second female prime minister from the Shinawatra family.

On August 14, it was confirmed Paetongtarn had submitted her defence to the court, in which she claimed the remarks she made to Hun Sen in the phone call were part of her negotiating technique, not an improper offer of favours. Paetongtarn has been suspended from her duties as Prime Minister since July 1 pending the court proceedings.

KPL