Bangkok: Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has confirmed that Raphiphat Chantharasriwong is the most qualified and senior candidate for the position of Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. Suriya stated that the ministry plans to propose this appointment before addressing the appointment of Directors-General at the departmental level, aligning with the regulations set by the Civil Service Commission.
According to Thai News Agency, Suriya shared insights following a recent Cabinet meeting, emphasizing that the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has put forward the nomination of Mr. Raphiphat Chantharasriwong, who currently serves as the Director-General of the Department of Agriculture, for the position of Permanent Secretary. This nomination is the only one currently being proposed for a high-ranking position within the ministry.
The appointment process has been carried out in consultation with internal ministry executives, adhering to civil service regulations. These regulations stipulate that a Permanent Secretary aware of their impending retirement should not propose their successor. As such, Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilapraphan, who oversees legal matters, advised that the ministry first propose the Permanent Secretary's appointment. Subsequent departmental-level executive appointments are scheduled for proposal on Monday, July 27th.
Suriya further assured that Mr. Raphiphat's seniority and accomplishments make him well-suited for the role. His capability to leverage scientific data for improving farmers' livelihoods and his experience in organizing significant events, such as the World Horticultural Expo, were highlighted as key attributes supporting his appointment.