The son of former prime minister Banharn Silpa-archa, the late founder of the party, insisted that the party would not be given away or become a “branch” for any political party.

“It is impossible. My dad devoted all of his life to build this house [party]. Giving away the party to others when he has gone – it’s like a betrayal to his soul,” Varawut said.

The party’s members, both senior and junior, are in harmony, he said.

Banharn died of an asthma attack on April 23, 2016 at age 83. The party he founded in 2008 faced an uncertain future following his passing.

Varawut said it was not certain he would become the next party leader but he would fill the position if the party asked him to do so.