Watch the Race for the 16th National Police Chief: Four Candidates Revealed with Voting Formula, No Surprises Expected

The race for the next Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police (the 16th) is entering a critical phase in selecting the new khaki leader to succeed “Big Tai,” Police General Kittirat Phanphet, who will retire on 30 September. Recently, it was reported that the Prime Minister will chair the Police Commission meeting on 22 July.

There are four candidates expected to be considered for the next Commissioner-General position:

1. Police General Niran Luemsri

2. Police General Samran Nuanma

3. Police General Thatchai Pitanilabutr

4. Police General Itthiphol Achariyapradit

Sources say the leading candidates to watch are Police General Niran Luemsri and Police General Thatchai Pitanilabutr, due to their seniority and proven track records.

In particular, Police General Niran Luemsri is the most senior and the frontrunner, with a background that spans both enforcement and academic work, combined with a vision to introduce technology and modern management methods into the organization.

Breaking down the strict selection rules: Prime Minister proposes a single name

Former Deputy Commissioner-General Police General Ek Angsanannot explained the legal criteria, noting that the selection is not based solely on seniority. The law stipulates that the Prime Minister alone has the authority to nominate a single candidate, considering both seniority and capability.

The selection process and procedures at the Police Commission meeting are clearly defined as follows:

Nomination: The Prime Minister will propose only one candidate’s name to the Police Commission for approval, rather than allowing the Commission to choose from all four names.

Voting: Approval requires a show of hands, with more than half of the attending members voting in favor.

Quorum and abstentions: If the quorum is 16 members, the four candidates—who are stakeholders—must leave the room, leaving 12 eligible voters.

Role of the Prime Minister: Usually, the Prime Minister does not vote except in the case of a tie, when the Prime Minister casts the deciding vote.

July deadline to prevent organizational damage

By law, the appointment of the Commissioner-General must be completed within July to allow subsequent police promotions to proceed on schedule—general-level officers in August-September, followed by colonel-level appointments.

Adhering to this timeline is crucial to avoid disruptions in management and budgeting of the Royal Thai Police. It also helps prevent allegations of interference or unfair appointments.