Former MCOT chief Wasan Paileeklee has been chosen by the Senate to sit on the National Human Rights Commission, a source said on Tuesday.
The Senate opted for Mr Wasan instead of Ratchada Jayagupta following a vote.
Mr Wasan received 206 in votes in favour of his nomination and seven votes against, while Ms Ratchada was backed by only 33 senators the source said.
There were 21 abstentions in yesterday's vote, the source added.
Mr Wasan said he would try carry out his duties to the best of his abilities.
He was nominated because of his knowledge about philosophy, culture and the Thai way of life, which it was thought would be advantageous in his role of promoting human rights, said the source quoting Deputy Senate Speaker Gen Singsak Singphrai, telling yesterday's senatorial meeting.
Meanwhile, four "experts" were selected to sit on the government's reconciliation committee, another source said.
They were Chavarong Limpattamapanee, chairman of the National Press Council of Thailand; Tuenjai Deetes, a former national human rights commissioner; Poom Moolsilpa, president of Srinakharinwirot University's Law programme; and Parichart Sthapitanonda, vice president for academic affairs and social outreach, Chulalongkorn University.
The selection panel, headed by Democrat MP Thoedpong Chaiyanan, will next officially notify the four about their appointment before seeking House Speaker Chuan Leekpai's endorsement. They will join 11 others appointed to the 21-member panel earlier this month.