BANGKOK – Thailand’s king made an unexpected call for “security” and “happiness” on the eve of the first election since a 2014 army coup, but made no mention of poll critics say has been engineered to keep the military in power.
King Maha Vajiralongkorn did not refer to any of the sides in Sunday’s election. However, his message less than 12 hours before voting booths were to open was a startling departure from the approach of his late father, who in his latter years kept a distance between the monarchy and politics.
“The king is concerned about the country’s security and the feelings and happiness of the people, so the king wants to send his moral support and a reminder for all to use it to bring about unity, security of the country and happiness of the people,” said a palace statement late on Saturday. (Reuters)
