Update: Retracting from an earlier announcement, the junta leader said on 14 October 2016 morning that all TVs channels are allowed to broadcast normal programmes after the midnight of 14 October.
The Thai authorities have ordered all TV channels to broadcast state programme for at least 30 days while asking for cooperations for everyone not to engage in entertaining activities.
At 10: 54 on 13 October 2016, Lt Gen Sansern Kaewkamnerd, spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, announced that all the programs of TV channels, including international satellite networks will be replaced with state media program starting from 14 October onwards.
“I ask corporations from all TV stations to broadcast the programme from The Television Pool of Thailand for the time being for at least 30 days,” said Sansern.
He added that Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, the junta leader and Prime Minister, also asked for corporations from all Thais not to organise or engage in entertaining activities for the time being.
The authorities’ measure mean that people will not be able to access independent news via their TVs for at least 30 days.
After King Bhumibol’s death was announced by the palace in the late afternoon of 13 October, nearly all TV channels and media webpages switched to monochrome tone to mourn for the late King.
Newspapers also published their materials without colours.