Bangkok: The Prime Minister confirmed the appointment of General Pu Duang as the new Secretary-General of the National Security Council, along with adjustments to the strategic plan for the southern region.

According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, in an interview following the 6th National Security Council meeting of 2026, announced that the meeting resolved to appoint General Chaiyapruk Duangprapat, Chief of Staff of the Royal Thai Army, as the new Secretary-General of the National Security Council (NSC). This appointment replaces Chatchai Bangchawad, who has been transferred to the position of Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister's Office following a Cabinet resolution on August 25th.

When questioned about the decision to incorporate military personnel into the NSC, Mr. Anutin confirmed that it was primarily to address the current situation in the southern region. He emphasized that the appointment aims to enhance the strategic approach to the ongoing challenges in the area.

Mr. Anutin also noted that the meeting included discussions on strategies and management approaches for the existing situation. He expressed optimism that adjustments to the working methods for managing the situation in the three southern border provinces would lead to improvements in security.

Following the NSC's resolution to appoint General Chaiyapruk as its Secretary-General, the proposal will be submitted to the Cabinet for approval.