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"I cannot say I am more capable than others although I have the spirit to serve the country and heal the social divisions," he said.

Chettha deemed it his responsibility to restore political normalcy by bridging the political divide of rival camps.

"Thailand is now a house under fire fuelled by the strife-torn South, as well as political animosity and it is time for everyone to work together to salvage the country and its economy," he said, vowing to reason with rival camps in order to bring about national unity.

His priority was to forge reconciliation, but said he had not discussed campaign plans with Snoh.

He voiced optimism, however, that his party would gain popularity and become a major political force.

Chettha also expressed readiness to form an alliance with other political factions, including Matchima, Ruam Jai Thai and Saman Chan.

The alliance, if it emerged, was not meant as an opposition to established parties such as Democrat and Chat Thai but aimed at ending "vengeful politics", he said.

He refused to speculate on whether his party could be part of the next coalition government or on his future, saying events were still too far ahead to comment on.

The former Army Chief said he met with junta chief General Sonthi Boonyaratglin many times but did not talk politics with him.

"I believe Sonthi will decide his future for himself following his retirement and no one should try to sway him," he said in reference to Sonthi's political ambitions.

Political commentator Likhit Dhiravegin said he saw Chettha and former prime minister Chavalit Yongchiyudh as suitable figures to help the country overcoming a leadership crisis.