Thailand’s crown prince has become king and launched a new era for Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy ahead of elections promised by the ruling military next year.
Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn’s ascent to the throne ends the uncertainty of the seven-week interregnum since the death of his father King Bhumibol Adulyadej, whose storied reign spanned more than 70 years.
Thais and foreign observers are watching closely how the new king will rule at a sensitive time for country long hobbled by political power struggles and military coups. Prince Vajiralongkorn does not command the same following as his father and has spent much time abroad in recent years, particularly in Germany.