22-9-2024 (BANGKOK) The government has put forward a list of 808 military officers for transfer in this year’s annual reshuffle. The extensive roster, submitted for royal endorsement, includes nominations for new leaders of the Royal Thai Army and Royal Thai Navy, as the current chiefs are set to retire at the end of September.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s office made the announcement via the Royal Gazette’s website on Saturday, signalling the commencement of a new chapter in Thailand’s military leadership. Upon receiving royal assent, the appointments will take effect from 1 October.
Among the most notable changes is the nomination of General Pana Klaewplodthuk as the new commander-in-chief of the army. Gen Pana, currently serving as the army’s chief-of-staff, was put forward by the outgoing army chief, General Charoenchai Hintao. His appointment has drawn particular interest due to his membership in the prestigious “red-rim soldier fraternity”, an elite group specially trained as Royal Guards. Gen Pana is slated to hold the top army position until 2027, providing a period of stability and continuity in army leadership.
The naval forces will also see a changing of the guard with the nomination of Admiral Jirapol Wongwit as the new commander-in-chief of the navy. This recommendation, made by the outgoing navy chief Admiral Adoong Pan-iam, has raised eyebrows in military circles. Adm Jirapol’s background is somewhat unconventional for a navy chief, as he received his naval academy education overseas and has not held some of the key positions typically associated with the role. This departure from tradition could signal a new direction for the Royal Thai Navy.
In the air force, while Air Chief Marshal Panpakdee Pattanakul retains his position as chief, there are changes in the senior ranks. ACM Panpakdee has nominated Air Chief Marshal Chainat Pholkit, currently a senior expert in the force, to serve as his deputy. Additionally, Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon is set to be promoted to chairman of the Air Force advisory board.
