Talks in Thailand are ongoing to form a coalition government following the May 14 general election.
But the frontrunner to become prime minister has hit a roadblock over his holdings in a media company.

The Move Forward Party, led by Pita Limjaroenrat, won more seats than any other party in the election. It has been in talks with seven other opposition parties to form a coalition government.

But Pita's ownership of shares in a media company could be in violation of the Constitution, even though the media service is no longer operating. The election commission is investigating, following a petition by a ruling party politician. This is raising speculation that Pita may be blocked from becoming prime minister.

He says he received the shares as part of his father's estate, and they have now been transferred to an heir.

Pita said: "I was confident in the regulations, and my accounting of the matter. However, there is a possibility that an attempt will be made to revive the case in the future."

Meanwhile, incumbent Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha was asked by reporters on Tuesday if he saw any chance of staying in power. He said no. Local media interpret this as suggesting he may have accepted his defeat.