Thailand’s Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn’s proclamation as King Rama X will herald a new chapter in the chequered history of the Far Eastern nation. Nearly seven weeks after the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Vajiralongkorn’s acceptance of an invitation from the country’s parliament to ascend the throne was met with a mix of relief and anxiety. Although his actual coronation will take place next year (he will be the 10th king of the 234-year-old Chakri Dynasty), the Prince’s proclamation is expected to put an end to the unprecedented period of uncertainty for the constitutional monarchy, which has been without a king since the death of Bhumibol on October 13. The late king was the world’s longest serving head of state when he died, aged 88.
Vajiralongkorn, who has lived abroad for a prolonged period of time, lacks his father’s authority and the widespread adoration that Bhumibol spawned. As head of the state, the new king will have to do a fine balancing act to ensure that the Thai society, government and Privy Council are on board. More importantly, he needs to go the extra mile to restore the sanctity of democracy in his country. This means keeping a good rapport with the army (who have staged several coups in the past) and making the civilian government work closely with the military.
The new monarch may need time to get its act together, but he must begin with a new understanding and outreach. As the institutions of his country evolve and become increasingly central to the trade and economy of the region, Vajiralongkorn has to crease out the many tensions that confront Thailand. The country deserves popular rule, consistent with electoral democracy.
