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Published on July 14, 2007

"I still have months to make up my mind and whatever I decide to do will happen after I have reviewed all factors to determine my readiness," he said.

If the Sonthi enters politics, he will have to weigh whether society and the public will accept him while the party banner of his choice was a secondary issue.

As he approaches the twilight of his military career, he said he wants a "happy ending" to his journey through life.

"I know what I want in life and will not allow myself to become a kite cut loose. I can manage to step down [from power]," he said.

No parties have approached him to run as a candidate, he added.

Sonthi's deputy, Air Chief Marshal Chalit Pukbhasuk, saw no problem with the Army chief aspiring for the top position in politics.

"Many past prime ministers were retired officers," he said.

Sonthi had the right to take on a political career just like everyone else, he said.

Chat Thai Party leader Banharn Silapa-archa said his party was ready to welcome Sonthi or any other newcomer. He also joked that he was willing to hand over his leadership.

Sudarat Keyuraphan of the Thai Rak Thai Group dismissed speculation that Sonthi's secretary-general General Winai Phattiyakul had met her recently.

She also admitted that when ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra was in Hong Kong earlier this month, she had a telephone conversation with him.

"Thaksin just told me he wants the general election to take place as soon as possible," she said.