PM says new Thai king may be announced in 15 days

Prayuth Chan-ocha says after at least 15 days of mourning, appropriate to enact article on succession of constitution

By Arun Saronchai

BANGKOK (AA) - Thailand's junta leader-cum-prime minister has said that Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn could be announced as the new king in as little as 15 days.

King Bhumibol Adulyadej died just five days ago, and each night tens of thousands of mourners continue to gather outside of his palace to mourn his loss.

Speaking to reporters after a cabinet meeting Tuesday, Prayuth Chan-ocha said that Thais worldwide need not worry about succession as everything was going according to procedure.

"After at least 15 days of mourning, it will be appropriate to enact article 23 of the constitution," Chan-ocha said.

Article 23 covers royal succession where the heir to the throne is announced before the legislative assembly and the nation.

The head of the Privy Council, Prem Tinsulanonda, was elevated to regent last week after Vajiralongkorn asked for time to grieve.

Kaynak: