Bangkok: The Prime Minister discussed the appointment of police officers outside of their annual term during a significant meeting of the National Police Commission in 2025. This discussion followed the resignation of three high-ranking officers, prompting the need for urgent action.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, chaired the 9th meeting of the Police Commission (P.C.C.). The meeting included the presence of Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanpetch, the National Police Chief and Vice Chairman, along with sixteen other P.C.C. members who attended both in person and via video conference. Notably absent from the meeting were Mr. Piyawat Siwaraksa, Pol. Gen. Thana Chuwong, and Mr. Chatchai Promlert. Prior to the meeting, the Prime Minister received the honor guard and inspected them.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Yingyot Thepchamnong, the spokesman for the Royal Thai Police, revealed that the meeting addressed standard procedures typically discussed in monthly meetings. However, the highlight was the Royal Thai Police’s proposal to seek approval for off-term appointments. This move was necessitated by the resignation of three civil servants who were part of the 27th personnel adjustment program, which left vacancies at the Assistant Commissioner-General and Deputy Inspector-General levels.
The Royal Thai Police emphasized the importance of filling these positions promptly to prevent potential government disruptions. Consequently, the National Police Commission granted approval for these off-term appointments. The next step involves selecting and appointing suitable replacements, ensuring no additional positions are added or rotated.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Yingyot underscored the necessity of the Deputy Inspector General role, given its responsibility for overseeing over 1,000 matters. The absence of a Deputy Inspector General could lead to operational disruptions and hinder the progress of forensic science and evidence review. The meeting participants unanimously agreed on the importance of this position.
For officers previously unaffected by off-term appointments, those entering in October will follow the regular appointment process without any impact. This marks the first instance of appointments being made within the regular cycle, with an emphasis on seniority.
The spokesperson for the Royal Thai Police confirmed that the Prime Minister’s involvement was strictly agenda-focused, with no additional items discussed. Issues like scams and other matters remain part of the government’s national policy agenda, as stated by the National Police Chief in a recent interview.