BANGKOK, Thailand – The Police Commission has unanimously approved the appointment of Pol. Gen. Samran Nualma as Thailand’s 16th Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, replacing Pol. Gen. Kittirat Panphet, who is due to retire on Sept. 30. The decision was made during the Police Commission’s 7/2569 meeting on July 22, which was held to select and appoint the next national police chief. The meeting lasted more than two hours, with discussions on the appointment taking place from 1:40 p.m. until the conclusion of the session at 3:50 p.m. After the meeting, Pol. Lt. Gen. Thayut Chanthawon, commander of the Office of the Police Commission, announced that all 12 eligible voting members unanimously supported the appointment of Pol. Gen. Samran, currently deputy commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police. He said the selection process followed the procedures outlined under the National Police Act B.E. 2565, with consideration given to seniority, knowledge, capabilities, and experience, particularly in investigation, crime suppression, and crime prevention.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Thayut explained that the prime minister submitted the name of a qualified deputy police chief candidate to the commission for approval in accordance with Section 23 (4) of the law. During the meeting, members discussed the nominee’s qualifications and suitability before proceeding to the vote. A total of 16 commission members attended the meeting. However, the four deputy police chiefs eligible for consideration left the room during the voting process in accordance with regulations, leaving 12 members eligible to cast ballots. The final result was a unanimous 12-0 approval. Regarding concerns that Pol. Gen. Samran ranked third in seniority among the candidates and whether the appointment complied with the Police Act, Pol. Lt. Gen. Thayut said the law allows the prime minister to exercise discretion when proposing a candidate. He explained that seniority is considered alongside other factors, including professional ability, leadership, and experience in investigative and crime prevention operations. He stressed that the prime minister and the commission carefully reviewed all relevant factors and followed legal procedures.
Asked about possible legal challenges from unsuccessful candidates or concerns over divisions within the police force, Pol. Lt. Gen. Thayut said the commission had discussed the importance of unity among police officers. He noted that while four candidates were eligible for consideration, only one could be selected. He expressed confidence that the three candidates who were not chosen, along with other police personnel, would continue working together and supporting the Royal Thai Police.
The appointment marks a new chapter for Thailand’s national police leadership as Pol. Gen. Samran prepares to assume the country’s highest police position. (TNA)
