Thai opposition files impeachment motion against Yingluck

The Thai opposition Democrat Party filed Friday an impeachment motion against Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra for abusing power and violating laws. The motion, sponsored by 146 Democrat MPs and submitted to the Senate, also seeks impeachment of Yingluck's deputy Plodprasop Suraswadi and Interior Minister Charupong Ruangsuwan. The three cabinet members are accused of abusing their authorities and failing to comply with the laws. Opposition whip Jurin Laksanavisit said the Democrats also plan to lodge a censure motion against Yingluck and her ministers, probably as early as next week. The Democrats have been leading a prolonged anti-government movement in the Thai capital city since early this month when the House of Representatives approved a government-backed amnesty bill that could lead to the return of fugitive former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.