"I'm not talking politics with Thaksin," says Somchai

"It's (talking to Thaksin his brotherinlaw) not involved (with solving political problems). It's about various ideas. I am the prime minister and I am in charge. I don't implement ideas of people outside the government. Don't worry," he said.

However, he declined to answer whether Thaksin took some role or influence in making his decisions.

Somchai said he wanted political conflicts to ease but he did not want to touch political issues. He would just follow up on situations.

Government spokesman Natthawut Saikua said he disagreed with former prime minister Anand Panyarachun who said Thaksin would be the only one who can solve the problems.

He said the current political conflict is complicated with a long history, but it did not involve Thaksin. Moreover, Thaksin is far away and seen as a fugitive. He has been destroyed and therefore has no power to unlock the turmoil.

"I think it's too far from Thaksin now," he said.

Meanwhile, Thaksin's personal spokesman Pongthep Thepkanjana said Thaksin had not contacted him to say anything since he and his family went to the UK.

Meanwhile Interior Minister Kowit Watana said the government is striving to safeguard democracy while illintentioned people have tried to inflame the turmoil to pave the way for a coup this month.

"If this month passes without the seizure of power, then I might remain in the job," Kowit said in a speech to newly-appointed provincial governors.

Political rifts remain the root cause of instability and the volatility has intensified because certain people siding with the People's Alliance for Democracy want soldiers to intervene and seize power, he said.

He urged provincial governors to brace for disturbances, such as the blockade of roads or airports.

He also called on the governors to focus on projects designed to forge unity and reconciliation, including the revival of the village scouts and the ongoing run bearing the national flag nationwide as part of the celebrations for the royal birthdays of Their Majesties the King and Queen.