Street protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban plans to establish a political party to support Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha's bid to regain the premiership after the election, Mr Suthep's younger brother confirmed Tuesday.
Mr Suthep himself neither confirmed nor denied the speculation, only saying that it is too soon to talk about the issue.
He insisted he will not return to politics, field himself as a candidate or join any government as a minister. However, he also added:
"But I will definitely not be derelict in my duty to the Thai people," said the former head of the defunct People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC).
He also reiterated his support for Gen Prayut to return as prime minister again after the election.
However, his younger brother, Thani Thaugsuban, admitted that the formation of a new party has begun.
Party founders are gathering members, and hoping to register the new party by the end of next month, he said.
The party will initially be named the Muan Maha Prachachon party.
"The new party will field candidates in every area of Thailand, especially in the South, but Mr Suthep will hold no formal position in the new party, nor be a member," Mr Thani added.