Thailand’s finance minister is examining whether Kittiratt Na-Ranong meets all necessary criteria before recommending him for the Bank of Thailand board chairman. The minister, who also serves as deputy prime minister, has until mid-January to finalise the appointment. Kittiratt’s selection last month stirred concerns over the central bank’s independence, given his previous advisory role to a former prime minister associated with the ruling party. Authorities must determine if this past position qualifies as political, since regulations require that nominees have no political posts for at least a year. If Kittiratt is deemed ineligible, no successor has yet been identified. After cabinet approval, the appointment still needs royal endorsement. Kittiratt would replace a predecessor whose term ended on September 16.