A new law giving Thailand’s king direct control over royal assets worth billions of dollars went into force Monday, the latest move by an increasingly assertive monarch to consolidate his power. King Maha Vajiralongkorn inherited one of the world’s great fortunes when he ascended the throne in October following the death of his father Bhumibol … Read more
Apple, Facebook and Google logos have been removed from a giant statue of a mythical beast that will stand inside the sprawling cremation complex being built for Thailand’s late king after their inclusion caused an online outcry. Dozens of palace artisans are working around the clock to produce a dizzying array of sculptures for the … Read more
Thailand’s new king was granted control on Tuesday over five state agencies that oversee royal affairs and security, the latest move by an increasingly assertive monarch to consolidate power. The law detailing the transfers was not made public until it was published late Monday in the Royal Gazette, meaning lawmakers had voted on the bill … Read more
Japan’s emperor Akihito met Thailand’s new monarch on Sunday during a brief visit to pay respects to his recently departed friend the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The audience was one of the first face to face meetings King Maha Vajiralongkorn has held with a fellow monarch since he ascended the throne following the October death … Read more