Law
Thai Deputy PM Addresses Police Reshuffle Speculation
Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has dismissed rumors regarding a leaked police promotion list, emphasizing that appointments follow legal procedures.
On August 17, 2026, Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed public speculation regarding a leaked list of police general promotions. According to a report by Thai Post, Anutin denied the existence of any such list, stating that there is no pre-determined roster for police appointments. He emphasized that the selection process is strictly governed by existing legal frameworks and is based on individual performance rather than seniority or specific police academy class affiliations.
Anutin directed inquiries regarding the details of the promotion process to the Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, Pol. Gen. Kitrat Phanphet, often referred to as 'Big Tai.' He explicitly rejected claims that the current administration is attempting to block officers from the 47th class of the Royal Police Cadet Academy (NRP 47), a group associated with former Deputy Police Chief Surachate 'Big Joke' Hakparn.
For residents and travelers, this development highlights the ongoing administrative processes within the Thai police force. While these internal personnel matters are standard bureaucratic procedures, they are frequently subject to public scrutiny and media speculation. At this time, the official promotion list remains unconfirmed, and the public awaits further clarification from the Royal Thai Police leadership regarding the final appointments and the timeline for the upcoming reshuffle.