"I am concerned about national reconciliation," General Surayud Chulannont said. "Just imagine a clash between rival camps should ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra choose to return to the country at this juncture," he said.

When asked if he was poised to lead the interim government, Surayud declined to comment on his political plans, citing his present role as an adviser to His Majesty the King.

"I am still sitting on the Privy Council and am dutybound to observe its code of conduct," he said.

He added that questions relating to the formation of the interim government should be addressed to the Council for Democratic Reform (CDR).

The privy councillor was optimistic that the political crisis had bottomed out, paving the way for the restoration of an elected government. He also reminded the people about the challenges ahead.

"Given the present circumstances, I empathise with anyone in the hot seat of defending the country's reputation in the international community, and solving the myriad domestic problems," he said.

He said authorities should quickly reach out to foreign governments and explain about the peaceful transition of power.

"What happened was a coup de grace  and not a coup d'etat  as reported by the foreign press," he said.

The Nation