Bangkok: The selection committee has chosen "Dr. Bill" as the new Secretary-General of the Phra Pok Klao, despite opposition leader "Teng" expressing disagreement. Reporters revealed that the selection was to replace Mr. Wittawat Chaiphakphum, the current Secretary-General of NIDA, whose term ends on August 23, 2025.
According to Thai News Agency, on May 15, 2025, Mr. Mongkol Surassajja, the President of the Senate and Chairman of the Selection Committee, announced the candidates for the position. The candidates were Associate Professor Dr. Manit Jumpa, Associate Professor Dr. Yuthaporn Issarachai, and Associate Professor Dr. Issara Sereewatanawut. Following presentations on May 20, 2025, Mr. Issara Sereewatanawut was selected with a majority vote from the five-member committee.
The majority support came from Mr. Mongkol Surassajja, Mr. Narongit Setthabutra, and Mr. Wittawat. However, Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut and Mr. Thongthong Chantrangsu did not vote for Mr. Issara. The Council of the King Prajadhipok's Institute regulations require the committee to submit the list of candidates to the President of the Council for appointment consideration.
Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor Matha, President of the Parliament and President of the Institute Council, has rescheduled the Institute Council's meeting to June 16, 2025. The meeting will take place at 10:00 a.m. in the Council Meeting Room of the King Prajadhipok's Institute.