Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon has ruled out the possibility of forming a new political party and becoming prime minister.
"I have never thought about forming a political party; nor do I want to enter politics," Gen Prawit said on Friday at the 1st Infantry Regiment (King's Guard) barracks.
Gen Prawit, also deputy prime minister, was responding to media reports that the military plans to either establish a new political party or give its backing to a nominee party.
The formation of a military-backed party would pave the way for Gen Prawit to be the next prime minister, the reports said.
However, Gen Prawit denied being the "big brother" of the powerful Burapha Phayak military clique.
"I am not the big brother of Burapha Phayak, as I have been dubbed by the media. This nickname sounds more like something suited to a politician. I am not a politician. In the military, we love and respect one another like brothers," Gen Prawit said.
Gen Prawit yesterday led high-ranking military officers in paying respect to His Majesty the King on his birthday in a ceremony at the 1st Infantry Regiment.
The deputy premier is the most senior member of the elite military Burapha Phayak unit. Prominent colleagues include Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and Gen Anupong Paojinda, now interior minister.