Thailand

Sick king refrains from speaking amid political crisis

Article published on the 2008-12-04 Latest update 2008-12-05 14:39 TU

King Bhumibol Adulyadej (R) and Queen Sirikit
(Credit: Reuters)

Thai King Bhumibol Adulyaej refrained from giving his traditional birthday speech on Thursday, leading people to believe that he did not want to offer guidance amid the current political crisis. His family reported that he had a sore throat. The political situation worsened last weekend when protesters from royalist-leading PAD party occupied Bangkok's international and domestic airports.

King Bhumbol is revered in his country, where Thais consider him semi-divine. His speeches are eagerly listened to by citizens, who look for guidance in his words.

He had appeared in public for the pre-birthday Trooping of the Colour ceremony on Tuesday, but that event was cut short.

The parliament will most probably name a successor to ousted Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat on Sunday.

Lawmakers would have voted for a new premier next week, but that session has been cancelled, according to government spokesman Nattawut Saikuar.

Somchai was barred from politics by a court ruling on Tuesday and his ruling party was suspended.