King Bhumibol Adulyadej waves as he returns to hospital after a ceremony at the Grand Palace in Bangkok in December 2010. Photos ReutersThailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world's longest-reigning monarch and a father-figure to the nation, has died in hospital aged 88. King Bhumibol reigned for seven decades after ascending the throne in 1946, providing a pillar of stability during the Cold War, the long conflict in Vietnam and his country's own political upheaval and rapid development. "When the right time comes, the crown prince confirmed that he has realised his duty and will continue to perform his duty as the heir to the throne," Prayuth said. Thailand is unlikely to face major economic disruption after the death of the king, some risk analysts and diplomats said.

Source: Otago Daily Times October 13, 2016 18:11 UTC