The Thai Crown Prince has announced that he is not yet ready to be enthroned as the next King, joining the public to mourn for the late King.

At about 9:40 pm on 13 October 2016, Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, the junta leader and Prime Minister, told media after a special meeting at Parliament that Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn does not wish to be formally enthroned as the next King yet.

“He acknowledges that he is heir to the throne, but he wishes to take time to express sadness with the people nationwide for the time being,” said the junta leader. “He needs time for the appropriate enthronement procedure.”

Since 1972, the Crown Prince has been Heir Apparent to the throne. Under the constitution, however, he can choose to take the throne when he wishes.

Under the constitution, the head of the Privy Council, Gen Prem Tinsulanonda, automatically assumes the role of regent.

The parliament can only make proposals to the Crown Prince to assume his role as the King X of the Chakri Dynasty.

After the nation was shocked by the news of the late King Bhumibol passing, the authorities announced a one-year-long public mourning period.

It is unclear when the formal Coronation ceremony will take place.

Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn