The profile of Dr. Supat Hasuwannakit before entering the 2026 election stage has attracted considerable interest in the public health community. Previously, he was transferred, which sparked a social controversy. Recently, he has stepped onto the political stage as a candidate for the Prachachon Party but has again come under scrutiny.
The timeline and key reasons can be summarized as follows.
Background and key roles.
Dr. Supat is the former director of Chana Hospital in Songkhla Province and the chairman of the Rural Doctors Association, known for his outspoken criticism of government health policies, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and regarding the cannabis legalization policy.
It is important to understand that the current issue concerns a "transfer order," not a "dismissal from government service" (which is a severe disciplinary punishment), with the following details.
• January 2023: The Ministry of Public Health issued an order transferring Dr. Supat from director of Chana Hospital to director of Sabayoi Hospital in Songkhla Province. Subsequently, he decided to resign from government service.
• Ministry's rationale: Cited "suitability and management" reasons to assign an experienced person to help develop a hospital in a remote area (Sabayoi is considered a high-priority area requiring effective management).
• Dr. Supat's rebuttal: Viewed this as "political persecution" due to the Rural Doctors Association's frequent criticism of the then Minister of Public Health. It was noted that the transfer regulations were amended to place power in the hands of the inspector general just days before the transfer order.
• Legal battle: Dr. Supat filed a lawsuit with the Administrative Court seeking to revoke the transfer order, arguing it was unlawful.
• Disciplinary investigation: In addition to the transfer, Dr. Supat faces a disciplinary committee inquiry on issues such as the procurement of ATK test kits and opposition to government policies. He denies all allegations and views them as part of the pressure campaign.