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Sensitivity over criticism of the monarchy has increased in recent years as the poor health of 83-year-old King Bhumibol Adulyadej has elevated concern about a smooth succession. At the same time, sharp partisan political battles in the wake of a 2006 military coup have unleashed unprecedented questioning of established institutions, including the palace.
– Extracted from Grant Peck, “Thai Webmaster Gets 13 Years in Prison”, ABC News (via Associated Press), 15 March 2011.
Could it be that sensitivity over the King’s health and the issue of succession is overplayed and this political upheaval would be occurring irrespectively as a result of the Thai public being more informed and experienced in the ways of their democracy? Does attributing responsibility to succession and the King’s health for an increase in sensitivity over the royal institution downplay the impact of a more politically aware Thai population? Are Thais more politically aware than a decade ago?
The narrative of the naughty Prince taking over as the good King dies resulting in national chaos is too easy to play into.
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I don’t think that the succession issue is overplayed. I think it IS as important as it is considered to be. Most Thai’s who are alive now have known no other leader. He is the focal point for the whole culture. He has provided an “identity” for the culture and acts as THE common factor that the whole of the people can agree on. There is definitely a big sense of dread about this issue. Not just because of who may be waiting in the wings, but just the fact that a big change is coming. There is a huge historical significance to the current Rama. There is a very old Thai belief that the House will reign for 9 generations, and then the country will fall into disarray. The current King is this 9th generation. Do not underestimate the significance that is placed on this. Many people believe that the current upheaval will occur precisely because it is this particular King.
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