"Under my watch, the party will strive for reconciliation in line with democratic rule," Chaturon said.

Thaksin resigned as party leader on October 3 while living in self-imposed exile in London. This led to the collapse of its 119-member executive board and a realignment of members.

"After a discussion, interim party executives have endorsed my leadership and interim duties to steer the party during the transition period," Chaturon said.

He dismissed speculation that he was a puppet of his predecessor, claiming his independence to lead the party as he sees fit. He also said his party should not be used as the reason for the lifting or continuance of martial law.

Chaturon said his party would quickly inform the Election Commission about the changes in the party line-up and comply with relevant provisions, including the filing of asset statements by party executives.

He also outlined his urgent tasks, one of which is to forge cooperation to overcome problems facing the country.

"Every Thai citizen wants political normalcy and I deem it necessary that differing opinions should be reconciled," he said, vowing that his party is ready to work with all concerned parties in accordance with democratic rule.

"I understand that the military coup has already happened - this is irreversible - and Thai Rak Thai is not trying to counter [the coup] but wants to restore democracy by peaceful means," he said, vowing to refrain from any political confrontations.

He said his party would engage in the political process and offer constructive suggestions on the restoration of democracy.

Thai Rak Thai legal expert Vichit Plangsrisakul voiced support for Chaturon as an independent and democratic person who would lead the party to become a political institution.  "From now on, I think our party will be stronger and can overcome the crisis," he said.

Suriyasai Katasila, secretary of the Campaign for Popular Democracy, said he did not believe Chaturon could restore the party's image unless he had the courage to take on its old clique.

"Chaturon has to tell the truth to Thai Rak Thai's supporters about what happened to its former leader and the party because as of now they still haven't accepted the failure under Thaksin," he said.