Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej Dies Aged 88

The world’s longest-reigning monarch, Thailand’s King Bhumibol Adulyadej, has died at 88.

10:00 14 October 2016

Thailand’s King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who had been in poor health in recent years, has died at 88. He was seen as a stabilising figure in a country hit by cycles of political turmoil and multiple coups. He will be succeeded by Maha Vajiralongkorn, whom the late monarch named crown prince in 1972.

 

The palace has confirmed the king’s death on Thursday evening following two days of speculations and rumours surrounding his deteriorating health.  

 

A statement released to the public said: "His majesty has passed away at Siriraj Hospital peacefully.”

 

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-Ocha addressed the public saying that Thailand would hold a one-year mourning period; flags would be half-mast and all entertainment functions would be “toned down” for a month.

 

In a later statement, he urged vigilance, saying that national security was a top priority. "Everyone will need to be alert in every region and throughout the country to ensure safety," he said.

 

A palace official has addressed the crowd outside of the hospital following the king’s passing saying that the king’s remains would be moved to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok on Friday.