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Thais mourn loss of beloved King Bhumibol

BANGKOK, October 14, 2016

King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world's longest-reigning monarch, has died after 70 years as head of state.

The 88-year-old king was widely revered but had been in poor health in recent years, making few public appearances, according to BBC.

Thousands of Thais on Friday gathered at Bangkok's royal palace for late-night vigils to mourn King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

His body was brought to the palace in a convoy as mourners lined the streets weeping. Millions watched live on TV, said the report.

Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn has been named as successor, but has asked for a delay in the process. A regent has been appointed.

He had been ill for a long time and died on Thursday. Official mourning will last a year.
The cabinet declared Friday a government holiday, and flags are to fly at half-mast for the next 30 days, said the BBC report.

People have been asked to wear black, and avoid "joyful events" during this period. Cinema screenings, concerts and sports events have been cancelled or postponed.

News websites have turned their pages black and white. All television channels in Thailand aired state media programmes including live coverage of the day's events, it added.




Tags: Thailand |

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