Party stalwart Korn Chatikavanij made it clear Monday he will not accept re-nomination for an executive position on the Democrat governing committee and will commit himself to political reform before elections take place.
Mr Korn announced this on his Facebook page on Monday, ahead of Wednesday's general assembly to elect a new executive committee and decide on reforming and restructuring the party.
He wrote that he had informed Democrat leader Abhisit Vejjajiva that he would not accept nomination to an executive position.
The former Democrat deputy leader said his mission would not be accomplished until there is reform and the Thaksin influence is ended before the country goes to the polls again.
His decision opens the opportunity to other Democrat executives to oversee the party's election campaign in the Central region, largely Bangkok, which has been Mr Korn's responsibility.
One of the people tipped to replace him is Apirak Kosayodhin, a party source said.
The Democrats will announce the line-up of the new, expanded 35-member executive committee at the general assembly on Tuesday, with Mr Abhisit strongly expected to continue leadership.
The spotlight is on the Democrats' position on the general election set for Feb 2, as the new executive committee will make a decision whether or not to compete in the poll by Wednesday at the latest,
Senior party members were tight lipped on the issue on Monday. Alongkorn Polaboot said the party will fully explain to the public whatever decision the Democrats make, and why.
Mr Alongkorn said the party must not forget the need to reform and restructure to make it competitive in the battle with the Pheu Thai Party in coming elections.
Democrat spokesman Chavanond Intarakomalyasut said the party respected Mr Korn's decision, as a former deputy party leader, to concentrate on the campaign for reform in full force with civic groups.
The party would still welcome him back whenver he wishes to return, he added.
Mr Chavanond promised that change in the party's key positions would open the way for more say from local branches and members. The party would decentralise power from the Bangkok headquarters in the decision making process.