Attention is focused on the proposal for Kitiphon to become the new director of the National Intelligence Agency, replacing Thanat, who is retiring but will continue serving as head of the peace dialogue team.
On 16 Aug 2026 GMT+7, reporters at the Government House reported that Thanat Suwannanon, director of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), is preparing to propose Kitiphon Ruensamrit, deputy director of the NIA, to the Prime Minister for submission to the Cabinet meeting for approval as the new NIA director. This is to replace Thanat, who will retire on 30 Sep 2026. Kitiphon is the only deputy director remaining in service, while the other two deputies, Weerasak Thipmontien and Sureeporn Intuseth, will also retire on 30 Sep 2026 alongside Thanat.
However, although Thanat will retire, he will continue to serve as head of the Southern Border Provinces Peace Dialogue Panel.