Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has brushed off speculation that he is luring politicians into a military-backed political party which would support his return as premier after the election.
"I am not a ventilator or vacuum cleaner. What sort of power can I use to force anyone to join?" asked Gen Prayut.
Speculation is rife that the regime is courting small- and medium-sized parties so a military-backed party would support Gen Prayut to return as prime minister after an election expected in February next year.
Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva revealed on Monday that efforts are being made to lure politicians into the regime's fold by offering them positions as ministers' assistants.
Responding to a media question that the regime plans to "suck up to" the Chidchob family, which has a strong political base in Buri Ram, to lure them its fold, Gen Prayut said he is not happy with such words.
It is important to look at what existing political parties have achieved and whether they have pushed forward policies drawn from people's demand, he said.
A mobile cabinet meeting trip has been scheduled for May 7-8 in Surin and Buri Ram.
The premier said he understands all politicians want to work for the country, but their desire is somehow hindered by their parties' policies or leaders, the prime minister said.
He stressed his mobile cabinet trip to Buri Ram next month is to meet ordinary people and not anyone in particular. He said he has not made a political deal with anyone.
"For anyone who would suck up or be sucked up to, it is their business," said Gen Prayut. "They [political parties] have to take care of their members the best they can."
He insisted the incumbent government plays a neutral role with regards to conflicts between the past administration and its opposition parties.
Asked whether he was uncomfortable after various political groups said they would support him to return as the premier after the poll, Gen Prayut said: "So so", as he has not yet given the nod to anyone.
When asked whether he would not reject this chance, the prime minister said: "I don't know."
In a related issue, Gen Prayut said he is in the process of asking legal officials to determine whether former Democrat MP Watchara Phetthong, who earlier said the regime is creating a party to back Gen Prayut's return at a cost of 40 billion baht, breached the law with his comment.
"This is not a small amount of money. Where did the money come from and who would give it?" the prime minister asked, adding the sum should be used to help take care of people.
The government earlier appointed Phalang Chon Party head Sonthaya Khunplome as an adviser to the prime minister, a move that was seen as part of a deal to pave the way for Gen Prayut's return.
Gen Prayut stressed that Mr Sonthaya, whose voter base is in Chon Buri, was appointed to be responsible for tasks in the eastern region, where he has the confidence of the public, adding there is no political agenda.
Industry Minister Uttama Savanayana, meanwhile, refused to comment on whether he will form a party backing Gen Prayut's return.