Bangkok: Narong Klanwarin has been elected as the new Chairman of the Election Commission (EC) following a closely contested vote. The EC meeting saw Narong secure the position with a 4 to 3 vote, succeeding Itthiphon Boonprakong, whose term has concluded.

According to Thai News Agency, the EC’s meeting included current members Lertwirot Kowattana, Thitichet Nuchnat, Chai Nakhonchai, Sittichot Intharawet, and Narong Klanwarin himself, as well as prospective members Anan Suwannarat and Narong Rakroi, who have been approved by the Senate. The selection process commenced at 1:30 PM and concluded in approximately an hour, resulting in Narong’s appointment.

The Office will now report the results of the selection to the Senate Secretariat, which will then forward the list to the Senate President for royal endorsement. This list will subsequently be submitted to His Majesty the King for the official appointment of the Election Commissioners, with Anan Suwannarat and Narong Rakroi also being concurrently appointed.

Narong Klanwarin, aged 65, was nominated as an Election Commissioner by the Supreme Court’s general meeting, replacing Pakorn Mahannop. He began his term on August 30, 2025. His previous roles include serving as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Supreme Court Judge, Chief Justice of the Central Bankruptcy Court, Vice President of the Court of Appeal for Specialized Cases, and Chief Justice of the Court of Appeal for Specialized Cases.