The world's longest reigning monarch has passed away, beginning a year of mourning. According to the Thai junta leader, the Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn will be the next King of Thailand.
On 13 October 2016, the Royal Palace announced via a televised national broadcast that His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej passed away peacefully at Siriraj Hospital at 3.52 pm.
“Although the medical team provided treatment to their fullest efforts, the illness [of the King] was not cured and had been getting worse until Thursday, 13 October, 15.52,” read the statement.
Following the palace’s announcement, Prayut Chan-o-cha, the junta head and PM, said the most crucial issue facing the country right now is succession. According to the Ascension Law, the government shall promote the heir apparent, Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn, who King Bhumibol already appointed in 1973 to be the next king of Thailand.
“Dear all Thai people, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, King Rama IX, has passed away. Long live the next king,” ended the junta head’s speech.
The National Legislative Assembly will have to meeting tonight to finalise the next king of Thailand.
The junta head also declared a year long period of national mourning. All state agencies will lower their flags for a month and state officials will wear black dress for a year. The junta head also asked the private sector to stop all entertainment activities for 30 days.
His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej