Regional News
His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej, World’s Longest-Reigning Monarch, Passes Away
A Thai woman holds a portrait of King Bhumibol Adulyadej as she prays – Photo Munir Uz Zaman
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BANGKOK – Thailand’s Royal Palace says His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world’s longest-reigning monarch, has passed away peacefully on Thursday October 13th, 2016Â at Bangkok’s Siriraj Hospital at age 88.
“Even though the board of doctors has closely monitored and treated him to the best of its abilities, the king’s condition never improved but deteriorated until Thursday,” it said in a statement.
A woman cries as Thais pray for Thailand’s King Bhumibol Adulyadej at Siriraj Hospital, where the king was being treated in Bangkok – Photo AP
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The ninth King of the Chakri Dynasty ascended to the throne on June 9, 1946 and was the world’s longest-reigning monarch. People across the country celebrated the 70th year of his accession to the throne this year.
He anchored the Southeast Asian country through violent upheavals at home and communist revolutions next door with a blend of majesty and a common touch.
The government has set a mourning period of one year for the passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
People are urged to join the mourning as appropriate.
In a Prime Minister’s Office announcement released shortly after the Royal Household statement on Thursday evening, all public offices and educational institutes will fly flags at half mast for 30 days from Oct 14, 2016.
