Chalit argued that such a clause would prevent a political deadlock caused by the lack of a clear majority in parliament.

He said if the constitution stipulates that only party leaders can become prime minister, the country would hit a political deadlock if no party commands a clear majority or if the party leader does not have public trust.

"This [elected PM] will be a condition that will squeeze us in the future - which is also unknown,'' said Chalit, who is also the Air Force commander-in-chief.

In the case where a party has a clear majority, there is no need to go for a non-elected PM.The constitution of 1997, which was scrapped in the September 19 coup, required that the prime minister must be an elected MP.

Chalit denied that his proposal is part of an attempt by the CNS to cling to power saying the CNS chairman and members will not become Cabinet members. "Only people with high credibility and competency to run the country can become PM,'' he said.

He also ruled out that the CNS may establish a political party and send a nominee to become a PM.

 "That idea is impossible and not realistic because once a nominee becomes a PM, you will not take orders from anyone because a PM has a high responsibility to the country. For instance, Gen Surayud Chulanont - who can force him to do anything? He has a country to be responsible for,'' Chalit said.