Social Security Reform Slate Files With Seven Candidates

The 'Social Security Progressive' team has filed seven candidates for the social security board election representing the insured sector on July 1, 2569 at the Social Security Office in Bangkok's Din Daeng district, led by Satsatharn Thammabusadee, a current social security board member representing the insured. The seven candidates received numbers 41-47: Satsatharn (44), Phontip Mongyai (47), Chalit Ratthapanad (45), Narithda Phokhaiyanant (43), Lerngrit Laoakij (41), Praratna Phodee (46), and Thanapong Chuammuangphan (42).

Before filing, Satsatharn stated that today marks the first day of board elections and the team aims to defend their championship position while fielding seven insured-sector candidates and seven employer-sector candidates to drive social security reform. He emphasized plans for zero-based budgeting to eliminate unnecessary spending exceeding 5 billion baht and redirect funds toward enhanced benefits.

"This is the most meaningful election for us," Satsatharn said. "Two years ago, with only six votes, we couldn't achieve complete transformation. This time, we hope to secure all 14 seats—seven from the insured sector and seven from the employer sector—to truly reform social security."

Satsatharn explained that today's seven candidates represent the insured sector, while employer-sector candidates will file later due to separate account requirements. The team includes three returning board members: Satsatharn, Chalit, and Thanapong, who have championed transparency, budget oversight, and benefit reforms. Four new candidates bring expertise from media workers (over 300,000 nationwide), human rights advocacy, barista unions, and civil service representation, aiming to expand social security coverage for vulnerable and informal workers.