Future Forward Party (FFP) leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit and its secretary-general Piyabutr Saengkanokkul could face more trouble after a group asked the Election Commission (EC) to determine whether they pose a threat to national democratic culture.
"Mr Thanathorn and Mr Piyabutr have spoken and acted in ways that raise doubts. Their stances make us wonder whether or not they are hostile toward the country's democratic system in which the King is revered as the head of state," said Phuphattha Saengsubun, who yesterday led the Siam Manusati civic group in submitting a petition to the EC.
Mr Phuphattha pointed to a few occasions when Mr Thanathorn talked about the 1932 Revolution when a group of military officers and civilians under the "Khana Ratsadon" banner launched a reform effort that culminated in the abolition of the absolute monarchy in favour of a constitutional one.
During a talk at Suan Dusit University in February, Mr Thanathorn spoke of his desire to see the 1932 Revolution proceed to its completion.
Mr Phuphattha said Mr Thanathorn's statement sounded to him like Mr Thanathorn may want to "continue Khana Ratsadon's mission".
Also on May 11 last year, the FFP leader took part in a forum that touched on the revolution and talked about the monarchy giving power to the people, Mr Phuphattha added.
It is not the first time Mr Thanathorn, widely known for his anti-military stance, has faced similar allegations.
He is today required to report to Pathumwan police, following a recent accusation made by the National Council for Peace and Order that he helped an anti-coup demonstrator, Rangsiman Rome, evade arrest in 2015.
The 40-year-old businessman-turned-politician has denied the charge, but said he will show up at the police station.
However, he hinted that a large number of his supporters might come to give him moral support at Pathumwan police station today.
The government shrugged off any concerns about unrest.
"I do not believe there will be any disorder," Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon said.
He also defended police for acting against Mr Thanathorn at this time even though the incident occurred four years ago.
"The delay resulted from a change in the investigation teams," Gen Prawit said.
Meanwhile, Immigration Bureau chief Surachate Hakparn hinted that police will "invite" Mr Piyabutr for a chat after a former singer, Haruethai Muangbonsi, filed a complaint with Lumpini police over the content of his two books.
The former law lecturer at Thammasat University wrote about the constitution as well as the reform of the monarchy, courts and military.
"It's still not necessary to summon him at this stage. Investigators just want to confirm whether Mr Piyabutr wrote the books," Pol Lt Gen Surachate said.
