Thai premier says crown prince will be monarch

FILE – In this Dec. 5, 2012, file photo, Thailand’s King Bhumibol Adulyadej, seated center, and his family members, from left: Princess Somsavali, Princess Ubolratana, Princess Chulabhorn, Princess Siribhachudabhorn, Royal Consort Princess Srirasm, Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti, Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn, Princess Sirindhorn; after addressing the crowd from a balcony of the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall on his 85th birthday in Bangkok. Thailand’s Royal Palace said on Thursday, Oct. 13, 2016, that Thailand’s King Bhumibol, the world’s longest-reigning monarch, has died at age 88. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn, File)

BANGKOK  — Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha says Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn will become the new monarch after the death of his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, in accordance with the constitution.

He said the crown prince was designated the successor to the crown on Dec. 28, 2002.

“We the government must proceed with the next steps in accordance with the law,” he said.

He said the government will notify the National Legislative Assembly, or parliament, of the king’s successor, and they will act accordingly with the laws of succession in the constitution.

Prayuth added that the government will observe one year of mourning and flags will fly at half-staff for 30 days. No government events will be held for 30 days, he said.

RELATED VIDEO