Two key members of the new coalition have questioned why caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam raised the idea of a new election if a shareholding complaint against Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat is upheld.

Move Forward spokesman Rangsiman Rome on Thursday reiterated that his party was well prepared to clarify the party leader’s shareholding in iTV Plc, saying the complaints against Mr Pita were politically motivated.

The MFP list MP-elect questioned why Mr Wissanu raised the scenario of a new nationwide general election if a ruling against Mr Pita leads to the revocation of his prime ministerial eligibility, MP status and his endorsement of his party’s candidates in the May 14 polls.

“In making such remarks, You (Mr Wissanu) are trying to advise senators (how to vote), aren’t you?” Mr Rangsiman asked. “This is a way to influence society and will make senators hesitate with hopes for a windfall.

“My question is whether the way you are doing it will create chaos in society or not. It’s tantamount to showing no respect for the intention of people who exercised their voting rights.

“Instead of giving a press interview in this manner, it’s better for Mr Wissanu to suggest to Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha that he show some spirit and pack his belongings from Government House,” said Mr Rangsiman, referring to the caretaker prime minister.

A deputy leader of the Pheu Thai Party also shrugged off Mr Wissanu’s remarks about a new election, calling such a scenario far-fetched.

The case against Mr Pita involves 42,000 shares in iTV.

iTV stopped broadcasting in 2007.