Bangkok: Keep an eye out for the appointment of the new Police Chief tomorrow. The Prime Minister kept the specifications for the next Police Chief a secret, saying, "Hearing the specifications gives me goosebumps." He emphasized that the spirit of the law and the national interest would be the main priorities, and that it must be considered whether the person can bring peace and stability to the country. "If they can't, even if they only have 1 year and 6 months of service, we will have to reconsider."
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, in his capacity as Chairman of the Police Commission (K.Tr.), gave an interview regarding the meeting to appoint the 16th Commissioner General of the Royal Thai Police, replacing Pol. Gen. Kittirat Panpetch, who will retire on September 30th. The Prime Minister is scheduled to chair the K.Tr. meeting No. 7/2569 tomorrow (July 22nd). Regarding the specifications of the next Commissioner General, he stated that they will wait until the meeting is completed before commenting further.
When reporters pressed further about whether there were specific requirements, the Prime Minister responded, "Talking about requirements gives me goosebumps." Regarding whether seniority should be the determining factor, the Prime Minister stated that everything must be considered together, in accordance with the spirit of the law. When asked whether a long tenure as Police Chief would risk a prolonged hold on power and not distribute authority to those from the military academy, the Prime Minister said that it's a long process, a long time, a daily occurrence, and that one must prioritize the national interest. He emphasized the need to consider whether the position brings peace and stability, but if it fails, even with only 1 year and 6 months remaining, consideration would be necessary. Regarding the names of individuals with longer tenures and outstanding achievements, the Prime Minister declined to answer, cleared his throat, and walked away from the interview.