Eknat emphasized his focus is only on the present after people linked Chantanon Wannakejorn as the new Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy. He explained he is assessing suitability, welcoming anyone ready to join in tackling problems. He also acknowledged that Natthapon Rangsitpol had been one of the candidates.
At 11:45 a.m. on 18 Aug 2026 GMT+7. Mr. Eknat Promphan, Minister of Energy, gave an interview at the Government House regarding the reasons for selecting Mr. Chantanon Wannakejorn, Special Expert attached to the Office of the Prime Minister, as the new Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy. He said Chantanon appears to be a suitable person, and at this time the Ministry of Energy has important tasks that require experience and a strong commitment to changing work methods. Therefore, he decided to appoint Chantanon as the Permanent Secretary. Within the ministry, there are many capable directors-general, but many still have many years before retirement, after 2032 onwards, so they still have opportunities to work and demonstrate their abilities.
When asked if he himself proposed the name today, Eknat said that the Minister always proposes the candidate and must request approval from Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri and submit it to the Cabinet meeting, following the proper process. When further asked how long the talks took, Eknat said they had been discussing already; initially, there were many options, but after consideration, Chantanon was deemed the most suitable. When asked if this was a political family quota, Eknat laughed and said, “That’s a different matter.”
Regarding the question whether Eknat had previously wanted Mr. Natthapon Rangsitpol, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, to assist, Eknat stated that they worked well together when at the Ministry of Industry. He admitted Natthapon was one option because the appointment of a Permanent Secretary can be from another ministry or an equivalent-level civil servant. When asked if he often communicated with Chantanon, Eknat acknowledged that they do talk frequently.
On the issue of the approximately four remaining years of civil service being one reason for selecting Chantanon, Eknat replied it was just right because the Permanent Secretary's term is four years if there is no transfer, which aligns with Chantanon's remaining service. He affirmed that current work must continue over the short, medium, and long term.
Regarding speculation that Chantanon was formerly on the working team of Mr. Newin Chidchob, chairman of Buriram United Football Club during his tenure as Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Eknat confirmed this had no relation to this appointment. He said he focuses only on present and future matters he must handle. If he and others have mutual understanding, that is sufficient. He admitted the path ahead will not be easy and will require struggle. Those ready to fight alongside him are welcome to join—just that.