A recent report said that Yingluck’s sister, Monthathip Kovitcharoenkul, was among three candidates for party leader. The other two were Pheu Thai key figure Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan and retired police chief Pol General Seripisut Temiyavej.

“My sister [Monthathip] would be startled because she has no intention of becoming involved in politics,” Yingluck said.

Currently, Police Lt-General Viroj Pao-in is the caretaker leader of Pheu Thai after his predecessor Charupong Ruangsuwan fled Thailand following the coup in May 2014.

Yingluck said it was good to have several candidates but they should wait until a clear date was set for the next election.

Asked if Khunying Sudarat is the most suitable choice to erase criticism that Pheu Thai belongs to the Shinawatra family, Yingluck said all candidates have capability but there is a mechanism in the party to select the leader.

Pheu Thai caretaker secretary-general Phumtham Wechayachai said party members would discuss the post when the junta allows political parties to hold activities.