Thai women have claimed another victory in the pursuit of equality, as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Wechayachai has appointed its first female spokesperson, marking a historic step forward in the traditionally male-dominated realm of the armed forces.

Colonel Dangjai Souvannakitti was named to the post by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Wechayachai. She succeeds Major General Thanathip Sawangsaeng, under whom she previously served as Deputy Spokesperson.

The independent news outlet Thai.news described the appointment as
“a groundbreaking move that challenges the status quo and was met with widespread acclaim.” It noted that Col. Dangjai’s leadership is expected to revitalize the Ministry’s communication strategy while promoting        a more inclusive approach to defense leadership.

Women are increasingly visible in Thailand’s armed forces, with approximately 7,465 female soldiers - about 8 percent of the more than 300,000 military personnel. This progress aligns with Thailand’s broader commitment to gender equality, exemplified by its current female Prime Minister, the second in the nation’s history, and one of the highest percentages of women in executive business roles in the region.

Col. Dangjai had already been serving as Interim Spokesperson since March, following Maj. Gen. Thanathip’s departure amid a leadership reshuffle. During this period, she impressed observers with her composure, professionalism, and deep institutional knowledge.

“Col. Dangjai didn’t just fill a gap - she made a commanding presence,” Thai.news reported. “Her tenure showcased her unwavering resolve and her adept understanding of the Defense Ministry’s operations, which she navigated with finesse and astuteness.”

Beyond her communications role, Col. Dangjai brings a strong academic and scientific background to her new position. She is an Assistant Professor in Physiology and previously served as Deputy Head of the Department of Physiology at Phramongkutklao College of Medicine. She is also a trained equilibrium therapist, and her scientific research has been published in reputable journals, with several of her papers available through the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

Col. Dangjai’s appointment reflects Thailand’s continued strides toward gender parity in government and military leadership, inspiring future generations of women to break new ground in all sectors of society.

Photo: https://www.matichon.co.th/politics/news_5201889