Thai party leader contrite after rebuke for princess' PM candidacy

A Thai political party leader expressed public contrition on Tuesday for selecting a princess as a candidate for prime minister, days after the move provoked a rebuke from her brother, King Maha Vajiralongkorn.

Thai Raksa Chart, a party linked to the powerful Shinawatra clan, on Friday proposed Princess Ubolratana as its prime ministerial candidate for March polls, an unprecedented bid in Thailand where the royal family is seen as above the political fray.

But Thai monarchs have intervened in times of political crisis since 1932 when the country became a constitutional monarchy.

King Vajiralongkorn quashed the candidacy the same day it was filed in a royal command calling it "highly inappropriate", prompting an immediate reversal from the party.

Thailand's wealthy and powerful monarchy is revered by Thais and protected by a draconian lese majeste law, and the king's word is seen as final.

The princess was disqualified Monday by the Election Commission, which is currently discussing whether it should recommend that Thai Raksa Chart be disbanded.

A contrite party leader Preechaphol Pongpanit reiterated Tuesday his party's compliance with the royal command and said it did everything "sincerely with good intentions".

"Above us is His Majesty and the monarchy," he told reporters at the party's headquarters, bowing his head and pressing his palms together in a gesture of respect.

"We are ready to be investigated."