Legal Experts Propose Solution to NBTC Leadership Deadlock

On September 18, 2026, a panel of experts from Chulalongkorn University and media policy organizations gathered to discuss the ongoing operational paralysis at the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC). The discussion focused on the legal status of the current NBTC chairman, Professor Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck.

Associate Professor Dr. Narongdej Surahoesit of Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Law explained that, under administrative law, a selection committee’s ruling remains in effect unless a court issues an injunction or a final judgment to revoke it. Consequently, he argued that until such a court order is issued, the current chairman cannot legally perform his duties. To resolve the deadlock, legal experts suggested that two NBTC board members should exercise their authority to call a formal meeting to appoint a new chairman, thereby unlocking the commission's ability to function.

For residents and expatriates, this situation is significant as the NBTC oversees critical telecommunications and digital television infrastructure. A stalled commission could potentially delay regulatory decisions affecting internet services, mobile networks, and media broadcasting standards. It remains to be confirmed whether the board members will act on this legal advice and how the courts will ultimately rule on the pending challenges regarding the commission's leadership structure.