Palang Pracharath Party (PPP) leader Uttama Savanayana has insisted individuals from all political factions are welcome to join his party, following media speculation pointing to several key politicians who have shown an interest in the party.
Mr Uttama, who is the current Industry Minister, made the comments Sunday after a party workshop was held to gather information on the PPP's potential policies.
When asked by journalists about recent interest from the Sam Mitr group -- the group seen as the current military government's recruiting force for would-be MPs -- he said no formal agreement had been made with them.
Sam Mitr, which means "Three Allies", comprises Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak, former transport minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit and former labour minister Somsak Thepsuthin. All three have held ministerial positions during ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra's term as premier from 2001-2006.
"We've held talks simply because we've known each other for a long time, but nothing can be said until the PPP becomes an official political party," Mr Uttama said.
Sam Mitr's Mr Suriya had earlier this month confirmed he would lead 70 group members to join and beef up the PPP.
The party applied for party registration with the Election Commission (EC) in March, but it has not yet been approved.
It is seen as supporting Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha's return as premier in the upcoming general election, although no party member has so far openly said this. Other key politicians have expressed an interest in joining the party, according to the media.
These include ex-Pheu Thai MP Mingkwan Sangsuwan, members of the influential Sasomsup clan, and the Ban Rim Nam faction, led by Bhumjaithai Party's Suchart Tancharoen.
Mr Uttama said he would be happy to see these individuals and groups join the PPP should it become a party. He added he can only confirm whether he will resign from his post as Industry Minister once the PPP is registered with the EC. No word was to hand on when that might happen.
PPP spokesman and PM Office Minister Kobsak Pootrakool said the party held the Sunday workshop in Bangkok sounding out views from members of the younger generation on how to seek members.
