The education minister's wife, Taya Teepsuwan, plans to stand for election as Bangkok governor when the city poll is eventually called.
The move would put her in direct competition with other prominent candidates for the backing of the ruling Palang Pracharath Party.
Education Minister Nataphol Teepsuwan confirmed on Friday that his wife Taya, a former core member of the now-defunct Peoples Democratic Reform Committee, would contest the gubernatorial election, which has yet to be scheduled.
Mr Natapol was at Government House for a brief meeting with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, amid speculation that his wife's political future could be the focus of the talk.
The education minister denied the meeting was about Ms Taya.
Her decision could give the ruling party a headache, as either serving Bangkok governor Aswin Kwanmuang or former police chief Chakthip Chaijinda are tipped to run under the Palang Pracharath banner. Both were close to the party back when Gen Prayut was the junta leader.
Pol Gen Chakthip set up a Facebook page this month in what could be preparation for a political run, while Pol Gen Aswin has not officially made up his mind whether to run or stand aside for the former national police chief.
Mr Natapol said his wife, who is a former deputy Bangkok governor, planned to a run as an independent if she is bypassed by Palang Pracharath.
The education minister said he had informed party leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwon of his wife's intention.