"The political situation has not warranted finding a new prime minister," Sonthi was quoted by Thai News Agency as saying.

He also refused to consider taking over Surayud's job, on the grounds that no one could make a difference with just six months before the election is due.

The general on Wednesday suggested he had been tricked into having a meeting with a group of activists calling for him to remove the PM from office, a power that is afforded him under the interim constitution.

Commenting on Surayud's fate, Democrat Party chief adviser Chuan Leekpai said he was confident the prime minister would remain to complete his term.

"The junta and the government are not in conflict with one another - this is why I see no reason for Sonthi to fire Surayud," he said.

Chuan expected the situation to improve after the general debate on the government's performance.

The government has scheduled a report on its midterm achievements to the National Legislative Assembly on May 24.

The Democrat adviser urged Surayud to be more responsive to the people's grievances, particularly of residents in the strife-torn far South, and show more determination to uproot the legacy of deposed premier Thaksin Shinawatra.

Acting Thai Rak Thai Party leader Chaturon Chaisang said any hasty move to replace Surayud might lead to chaos, resulting in the general election being delayed. "Concerned parties should help to speed up the restoration of democracy instead of trying to drive a wedge between the government and the junta," he said.

Meanwhile, Surayud's close aide, Lt-General Ninnart Biewkhaimuk, yesterday dismissed media speculation of a possible attempt to assassinate the prime minister.