Politics
Thai Cabinet Appoints New Permanent Secretary for Social Development
The Thai Cabinet has approved the appointment of Chokchai Wichienchaiya as the new Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security.
On August 11, 2026, the Thai Cabinet officially approved a high-level administrative appointment within the civil service. According to reports from Government House, Chokchai Wichienchaiya, who previously served as the Director-General of the Department of Older Persons, has been appointed as the new Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS).
This appointment is part of the government's ongoing administrative restructuring. For residents and expatriates in Thailand, changes in the leadership of the Ministry of Social Development are significant as this department oversees critical welfare programs, support for the elderly, and various social security initiatives that impact vulnerable populations and community development projects across the country.
Additionally, there has been public speculation regarding a potential transfer of Nattapol Rangsitpol, the current Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Industry, to the position of Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Energy. However, reports from Khaosod Online indicate that this specific move was not discussed or considered during the Cabinet meeting held on August 11. Consequently, the status of the Ministry of Energy’s leadership remains unchanged for the time being. Further updates regarding potential future cabinet reshuffles or departmental transfers remain to be confirmed by official government announcements.