New Police Chief : The National Police Commission unanimously resolved to approve the appointment of Pol.Gen. Samran Nuamma Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police as the 16th Police Chief ", confirming the selection process fully complied with the National Police Act.
On 22 Jul 2026 GMT+7, reporters covered the progress of the 7th/2026 meeting of the National Police Commission to select and appoint the 16th Royal Thai Police Chief, replacing Pol.Gen. Kittirat Phanphet, who will retire on 30 Sep 2026. The selection meeting lasted over two hours, concluding at 15:50.
After the meeting, Pol.Maj.Gen. Thayut Chanthaworn, Commissioner of the Police Commission Office, stated that the National Police Commission unanimously approved Pol.Gen. Samran Nuamma, Deputy Police Commissioner, as the 16th Police Chief. He confirmed the process fully complied with the 2022 National Police Act, considering seniority, knowledge, and experience in investigation and crime prevention.
Pol.Maj.Gen. Thayut detailed the selection steps: the Prime Minister nominated qualified Deputy Police Commissioners per Section 78 (1) to the Commission for approval under Section 23 (4). During consideration, there was thorough discussion and evaluation of candidates' qualifications.
Sixteen commissioners attended the vote; the four eligible Deputy Commissioners left the room as required by regulations, leaving twelve voting members. The vote result was unanimous.
Regarding concerns about appointing the third most senior candidate potentially conflicting with the 2022 Police Act, Pol.Maj.Gen. Thayut explained the law allows the Prime Minister discretion to nominate candidates considering both seniority and knowledge, especially investigation and crime prevention experience. The Prime Minister and Commission carefully followed all legal procedures.
When asked about concerns over possible lawsuits by unsuccessful candidates or divisions within the organization, Pol.Maj.Gen. Thayut said the Commission discussed the importance of police unity clearly. Since only one of the four candidates can be selected, the Prime Minister and all members trust that police officers will maintain unity and continue cooperating for the benefit of the Royal Thai Police. They urged all parties not to worry about this issue.