King’s Mourning Should Not Delay Elections: Thailand Military Government

Thailand’s military government said elections will be held as scheduled even though there is a delay in late King Bumibol Adulyadej’s son taking the throne amid mourn across the country for the fallen monarch.

Junta leader Prayuth Chan-Ocha confirmed even though Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn is taking longer time to mourn the plans for the country would not be derailed.

In a televised message Prayuth said, “We should all pass this period first… When ceremonies for making merit and the funeral pass for a while, then it should be time to continue. This is unlikely to create any impact on other plans or processes.”

The king passed away on October 13 following years of illness. His son does not hold the same public adulation as his father, who was a symbol of unity.

Meanwhile, Prayth said elections could take place in late 2017 following a new constitution is in place and also the laws governing vote are written.

Junta-backed charter approved earlier this year in August by a referendum is said to be cementing the power of military as well as non-elected bodies. The charter still is waiting for royal approval.

Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-Ngam said constitution’s approval should not be delayed due to death of the king.

He also added the crown prince had talked with Prayuth to keep all the developments in track without any delay.