Chavalit is also in the process of forming a new political party to vie for a chance to form the next coalition government once democratic rule is restored, the aide said.

"Chavalit is unlikely to lead the soon-to-be-formed party himself, although he is expected to become a central figure to shape the next government," he said.

The aide said Chavalit made critical remarks about the CNS because he wanted to gain the attention of coup-makers and influence how they reshaped the political landscape to pave way for his new party.

"Before the September 19 military take-over, Chavalit was close to certain coup-makers, but they drifted apart after the installation of the interim government," he said.

Chavalit's new party might involve political veteran Thiti Nakornthap, who once helped military strongman General Suchinda Kraprayoon take the prime minister's post, he said.

Key politicians who might join the new party include Wang Phya Nak faction leader Pinij Charusombat and Wang Nam Yom faction leader Somsak Thepsuthin.

Another anonymous source said Chavalit met with CNS secretary-general Winai Phattiyakul every Monday but had lost contact with other CNS members. "The dinner on Monday night gave him a chance to renew contacts with the coup-makers," the source said.

The dinner went well as CNS members and Chavalit exchanged views on many relevant issues, he said. Chavalit was satisfied with the progress achieved by the CNS and suggested deposed premier Thaksin Shinawatra be allowed to return home, he added.

The CNS still objected to Thaksin's return at this juncture on grounds that he might become a catalyst for confrontation, he said.