Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha insists there is no rift between him and Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon, despite claims by opponents there is friction between the two.
The premier was responding to comments by former foreign minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul who said Gen Prawit should replace Gen Prayut as premier if the draft charter is shot down in the referendum. Some people claim Gen Prawit fancies the job.
Gen Prayut yesterday insisted his relationship with Gen Prawit remains strong as ever, saying he has always respected Gen Prawit as a senior figure.
Gen Prawit similarly said he appreciates Gen Prayut as head of the government.
"I insist there's no rift between us. We have known each other for about five decades. Our relationship is stronger than other people think," Gen Prayut said. He said the media should not pay much attention to such rumours.
On Mr Surapong's comment, Gen Prawit said he is not suited for the top job in government, while the thought of being prime minister and running the country has never crossed his mind.
"I have no idea why those people always make such comments, because they can cause damage to others," Gen Prayut said.