Politics
Thai Cabinet Appoints New Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs
The Thai Cabinet has approved the appointment of Jessada Cheewawichwalkul as the new Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs, effective October 1, 2026.
On September 22, 2026, the Thai Cabinet officially approved the appointment of Jessada Cheewawichwalkul as the new Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs. According to Khaosod Online, the decision was announced by Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Peritwiwatana following a Cabinet meeting at Government House.
Mr. Cheewawichwalkul, currently serving as an Inspector-General at the Office of the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Culture, will succeed the outgoing Director-General who is retiring from government service. The appointment, which received approval from Deputy Prime Minister Suphajee Suthumpun, is scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2026, pending the formal royal endorsement.
For residents and visitors, this administrative change marks a transition in the leadership of the agency responsible for overseeing religious affairs and promoting interfaith cooperation in Thailand. While the Department of Religious Affairs primarily manages internal state-religious relations, its policies can influence the management of cultural heritage sites and the coordination of major religious festivals. As of now, the official royal decree confirming the appointment remains the final step in the process. Observers will be watching to see if the new leadership introduces any shifts in the department's approach to cultural preservation or public religious engagement.
