Nuttaphong Kunakornwong, the son-in-law of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has dismissed rumours that he will become the new Pheu Thai Party leader.
Mr Nuttaphong, CEO of SC Asset Corporation Plc, is married to Pinthongta Shinawatra, Thaksin's eldest daughter.
The company's public relations unit denied the rumour and released a short message Mr Nuttaphong had sent to the firm's employees, which read: "BTW [by the way], I am still here, everyone. Do not believe the news."
Pheu Thai's acting secretary-general Phumtham Wechayachai said earlier that no proposal has been made to nominate Mr Nuttaphong as party leader.
Meanwhile, the Democrat Party is getting prepared ahead of the government partially lifting restrictions on political activities, which could happen later this month.
Democrat leader Abhisit Vejjajiva said the party will mobilise to gather members and set up branches to accommodate primary votes.
"New technology will be used to boost public participation," he said.
Mr Abhisit announced that a mobile phone application will be rolled out to allow new and former members, numbering more than 2 million, to vote for a leader.
"Although this is not legally binding, the party's general meeting would accept the result of such a vote from members across the country," he said.
Also on Tuesday, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha refused to discuss his political future, saying he would make a decision after the organic laws on the election of MPs and selection of senators are royally endorsed and the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) partially lifts the political ban.
"Situations at that time would have implications on my decision as to whether I need to stay on to perform my duty further in line with the charter," said Gen Prayut.
According to him, retired civil servants, police or military officers also have the potential to enter politics in line with laws.
He said if he has to engage in politics, he would not do it for himself but in the best interests of the country.
Deputy Prime Minister Gen Prawit Wongsuwon said he had not given any advice to the premier regarding the matter.
However, he said he personally believes that Gen Prayut should return as prime minister after the poll to finish the work he has started and also refused to comment on his own plans for after the election.
