BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand's king will be officially crowned in coronation ceremonies on May 4-6, the royal palace said on Tuesday. King Maha Vajiralongkorn, 66, has been serving as monarch since shortly after his father died in 2016 after a 70-year reign. Vajiralongkorn officially became Thailand's king in December 2016 after an invitation by parliament following the death of his revered father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, on Oct. 13, 2016. King Bhumibol was revered by Thais during his seven decades on the throne and the deep relationship between the monarchy and the military has helped facilitate a smooth royal transition following his death. Since then, Vajiralongkorn has overseen sweeping changes to royal affairs, including the running of palace finances which were formerly managed by the government.

Source: The Star January 01, 2019 06:00 UTC