King Rama X of Thailand during his first New Year’s allocution to the Thai nation – Picture by the Grand Palace Office.
1 December 2016, Bangkok: Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn became the new monarch of Thailand, succeeding his father King Bhumibol Adulyadej who passed away on 13 October 2016 at 88 years old.
Ending nearly two months of regal interregnum, the crown prince assumed the kingship as the 10th monarch of the Chakri Dynasty just three days before a public holiday commemorating the birth of his late father, who was widely revered as a national father figure. His Majesty the King “Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun“, 64, had been the designated heir apparent since 1972.
His ascension to the throne was announced, as per the constitution, at about 11.20am by the National Legislative Assembly.
His first official duties as the new King were presiding over state ceremonies on 5 December which had been celebrated as both National Day, Father’s Day and the birthday of the late King Bhumibol (Rama IX).
On 29 December 2016 King Rama X addressed the Thai nation for the first time during the traditional New Year’s allocution of the monarch.
For further information:
Bureau of Royal Household: http://www.brh.thaigov.net/brh-2011/index.php
