The Democrat Party's board yesterday met Bangkok governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra after he kicked off his campaign for re-election on Monday even though the party has yet to finalise a candidate.
The meeting lasted about one hour.
Some Democrats believe MR Sukhumbhand's early campaign launch was designed to pressure the party into fielding him in the Feb 17 race.
However, sources insisted yesterday's meeting was not intended to reprimand him for starting his campaign prematurely. MR Sukhumbhand was simply invited to give his vision statement as the party mulls potential candidates.
A party source said two steps were involved in the selection process.
The party's selection committee chaired by Banyat Bantadtan will interview all candidates and make a selection.
The nominee must be endorsed by the party board, the source said.
Up to five candidates are likely to be considered: Prakob Jirakitti, Apichai Techa-ubon, Khunying Kalaya Sophonpanich, Korbsak Sabhavasu, and MR Sukhumbhand.
Khunying Kalaya, who was also invited to the meeting yesterday, has reportedly withdrawn from the race.
MR Sukhumbhand yesterday denied speculation he was trying to force the party's hand in fielding him.
"I merely outlined the policy platform which is ready to be implemented if I am re-elected," he said.
He promised to cut fares on BTS skytrain route extensions to encourage commuters to leave their cars at home and turn to public transport instead.
MR Sukhumbhand said the policy announcement did not constitute vote-buying because all residents would benefit.
The 15-baht fare for two extension routes _ On Nut-Bearing and Taksin-Bang Wa _ will be cut to 10 baht if he is re-elected. MR Sukhumbhand said a poll conducted in Bangkok two months ago showed he would win by a landslide.