UPDATE - Thais mark one-month anniversary of king’s passing

UPDATES TO LINK VIDEO

By Arun Saronchai

BANGKOK (AA) - Official ceremonies were held in Bangkok on Sunday as Thais paused to remember the one-month anniversary of the passing of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

At Siriraj Hospital, where the highly revered monarch died at the age of 88, a candlelight vigil and a moment of silence were observed.

Town halls throughout the country held Buddhist ceremonies for the late king, whose reign lasted 70 years.

Bhumibol died Oct. 13 after suffering from a long illness.

The throne is currently vacant and Thailand ruled by regent Gen. Prem Tinsulanonda, the chairman of the Privy Council.

The heir apparent, Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, has asked for time to mourn his father before he assumes the crown.

Local media has reported that preparations are underway for a Dec. 1 ascension.

Vajiralongkorn spends most of his time abroad in Germany where his youngest son attends school.

He does not enjoy the same popularity as his father, who was seen as a controlling factor in the kingdom's turbulent political history.

One of the first task for the newly crowned monarch will be to endorse a constitution drafted by Thailand’s military government which will pave the way for elections in 2017.