Police General Kittirat Phanphet, known as "Big Tai," the 15th National Police Chief, is scheduled to retire on 30 September 2026 GMT+7.
The leading candidates to become the 16th National Police Chief, succeeding Big Tai, must, according to selection regulations, be Police Generals holding the position of Deputy National Police Chief or National Police Inspector General, with expertise in investigation or suppression being key considerations.
Based on the information provided and the current situation, the four candidates each have distinct merits and strengths as follows.
Leading candidates for the new National Police Chief.
Names | Current positions | Police Cadet Class | Retirement year | Strengths / Responsibilities |
1. Police General Nirandorn Lueamsri | Deputy National Police Chief | Class 43 | 2028 | Oversees legal affairs and cases; highly skilled in legal theory and regulations. |
2. Police General Thatchai Pitanilabut | Deputy National Police Chief | Class 42 | 2027 | Responsible for crime suppression; expert in technology and cybercrime. |
3. Police General Samran Nuanma | Deputy National Police Chief | Class 50 | 2033 | Manages security and special affairs; has the longest remaining service (younger cadet class but a strong profile). |
4. Police General Itthipol Acharayapradit | National Police Inspector General | Class 43 | 2029 | Skilled investigator with experience in key areas and audits. |
Situation analysis
Police Generals Nirandorn and Thatchai are senior and experienced in core police work, making them highly likely candidates when considering seniority alongside performance.
Police General Samran, though from a younger cadet class (50), has held his position for a long time with outstanding achievements, making him a 'dark horse' who could ascend to the top post for many years due to his many remaining service years.
Police General Itthipol is a respected investigator within the force, notable for handling major cases, a key qualification emphasized in the new Police Act.
However, the selection of the National Police Chief also involves political factors, as the Prime Minister proposes the candidate to the Police Commission for approval.