General Natthaphon revealed he has not been approached to join the new government and will continue working until the end of his term. Regarding the issue of a spoon found in the ashes, if the family remains dissatisfied, he is ready to allow further investigation. He urged military commanders to strictly follow the law and to take action against any wrongdoing.
At 11:00 a.m. on 23 Feb 2026 GMT+7 General Natthaphon Nakpanich, Minister of Defence gave an interview after a defense council meeting, during which he spoke about his work in the final period before the formation of the new government. He said, "I will continue working for the remaining two months. Currently, no one has approached me for talks, and I prefer not to discuss details. I will complete my term." When asked if he still has unfinished tasks to handle, General Natthaphon confirmed there are none. Everything is progressing steadily, and any pending matters are being completed. Asked whether his roughly three to four months as Defence Minister represent the peak of his tenure, he replied, "I prefer not to say whether it is the peak or not, but I have done my best with the time available. In any position I have held, I never assume there is more time or that I could do better. I focus on making the best of the time I have. Right now, I believe I have done my best. Regarding whether I will continue or not, I decline to comment."
Spoon found in ashes; if family remains uneasy, further investigation will be allowed. Meanwhile, General Natthaphon also commented on the controversy surrounding the discovery of a spoon in the ashes after the cremation of Private Phetcharat Kamlangying, a soldier from the 2nd Artillery Regiment, King's Guard, stationed in Prachinburi Province. He died of heart failure after losing consciousness while detained at the 12th Military Circle prison. The investigation report from the unit indicated no problems, and the unit is open to further examination and clarification.
Regarding concerns that spoons could be used as weapons, General Natthaphon said the matter must be further examined by the unit. Initially, the report to him indicated no issues. The medical autopsy found no internal problems. He stressed the importance of listening to the medical findings first. If the family remains dissatisfied, further investigation is welcomed. "I emphasized at the defense council meeting that although our military operations have been praised by the public, when returning to normal conditions, several issues may arise that cause public concern. I have asked the military commanders at all levels—including privates, rangers, government employees, and non-commissioned officers who have been praised for their operations—to review details carefully. Even a few issues could damage our reputation. In this era, I can say we are ready to investigate. If there are violations, they will be dealt with accordingly. For example, if there is torture, it will be prosecuted under the Torture Prevention Act, following the law. At the policy level, this is clear. At the subordinate level, commanders should be understood because otherwise, they cannot explain matters to society or parliament. They must be able to provide explanations. Meanwhile, if offenses occur, they will be handled under the law going forward."