Bangkok: Songsak Saichue, Chairman of the Ombudsman, delivered a New Year's message for 2026, focusing on building a strong Thai society grounded in the rule of law, fairness, and justice.

According to Thai News Agency, Songsak Saichue reflected on the challenges of 2025, characterized by significant changes and complexities both globally and domestically. The Ombudsman's office addressed no less than 3,000 public complaints and dealt with systemic issues, scrutinizing public services and policies under Category 5 in over 20 cases. These efforts laid the foundation for resolving structural problems across various dimensions in Thailand. The working principles in 2025 prioritized ethics, quality, standards, speed, transparency, adherence to the rule of law, and the integration of innovative concepts, such as forums for citizen feedback.

The Ombudsman utilized social innovation in fact-finding, leading to recommendations or rulings to resolve public issues. The three guiding principles for 2025 were positioning the Ombudsman as a refuge for people, a source of justice for the nation, and a proponent of a strong, just, and sustainable society. These principles will continue to guide efforts in 2026, aiming to elevate the standards of the Ombudsman's office to meet national and international benchmarks while introducing new concepts and methods for improved processes.

Excellent cooperation and recognition have been received by the Ombudsman in the past, and plans for 2026 include introducing ideas such as social justice and innovation to elevate Thailand's rule of law to an international level. Preventative measures and expanding networks are also planned, including community empowerment projects like "Benjapakee" and local administrative initiatives such as the "Go Clean" project. These efforts aim to strengthen Thai society through a people-centered approach, supporting government agencies in effective collaboration.

On behalf of the Ombudsman's office, Songsak conveyed wishes for happiness, strength, and success in the New Year, encouraging unity in overcoming national challenges and achieving lasting prosperity throughout 2026 and beyond.