The nomination of the new transport permanent secretary has been postponed as the transport minister has little support for his choice, according to a source.
The cabinet meeting yesterday did not receive a nomination.
Transport Minister Jarupong Ruangsuwan wants to promote Somchai Siriwattanachoke, director-general of the Land Transport Department.
But other politicians are reportedly pushing for the job to be taken by Pol Gen Wichean Potephosree, secretary-general of the National Security Council.
The position is vacant following the resignation of Supoj Saplom in May after the National Anti-Corruption Commission found him to be unusually wealthy.
The source said Mr Jarupong lobbied Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to support his selection, but to no avail.
Pol Gen Wichean is 59 and, if he became transport permanent secretary, he would be in the position for one year.
Deputy transport permanent secretary Soithip Trisuddhi was a candidate because of her seniority, but the minister did not select her.
Mr Jarupong yesterday refused to reveal the reason for the postponement of the nomination to the cabinet meeting. He said he had discussed the issue with Ms Yingluck and they had concluded the selection.
He said he would also nominate the new directors-general of the Highways Department and the Marine Department to succeed retirees.