Paetongtarn faces new job row

Eligibility for culture post questioned

- AEKARACH SATTABURUTH

Suspended prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has come under mounting political pressure following reports she is set to be sworn in as minister of culture despite a Constitutional Court order that temporarily bars her from performing duties.

The controversy erupted after the court issued a preliminary ruling requiring Ms Paetongtarn to cease her duties as prime minister. The suspension stems from a case concerning a leaked audio recording of her private conversation with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, which raised questions about ethical conduct.

Acting prime minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit will lead Ms Paetongtarn in a swearing-in ceremony for the new post today. However, several senators argue this move may be unconstitutional and ethically problematic.

According to a Senate source, multiple senators are discussing whether to request the Senate whip to submit the matter to the court.