Transport Minister Defends Appointment of New Permanent Secretary

On August 11, 2026, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn addressed public and political discourse surrounding the appointment of Piyapong as the new Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport. According to a report by Prachachat Business, Minister Phiphat explicitly denied that the selection was influenced by political quotas or connections to influential political factions, often referred to as 'big houses.'

Minister Phiphat emphasized that the decision was based solely on Piyapong’s professional qualifications, expertise, and his ability to oversee the ministry’s operations as a comprehensive system. The Minister stated that the appointment is intended to ensure effective management of the country's transport infrastructure.

For residents and travelers, this appointment is significant as the Ministry of Transport oversees critical infrastructure, including road networks, rail projects, and aviation policies that directly impact daily mobility and logistics across Thailand. Stable leadership within the ministry is generally viewed as essential for the continuity of ongoing infrastructure development projects.

While the position of Permanent Secretary has been filled, Minister Phiphat noted that the ministry is currently in the process of identifying a suitable candidate to serve as the new Director-General of the Department of Highways. Further updates regarding the leadership of the Department of Highways are expected as the selection process continues.