Thailand celebrates King’s 85th Birthday

BANGKOK, December 5 (TNA) – Thailand’s His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej on his 85th birthday celebration Wednesday asked Thai people to uphold and offer mercy and unity to bring peace to the country. Addressing a large crowd in front of the Ananda Samakom Throne Hall to Rajdamnoen Avenue in Bangkok, the king thanked his people for their good wishes and said that only unity would help the country survive no matter what situation the country was facing. The royal remarks were made in a time when Thailand had been under sharp divisiveness following a bloodless coup on September 19, 2006, which toppled the elected government of then-prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Accompanied by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, the king travelled from Siriraj Hospital in a motorcade and arrived at Ananda Samakom Throne Hall at about 10.30 a.m. Large crowds dressed in yellow, waving flags bearing the king’s royal insignia, chanted “Long Live the King” as the motorcade passed by. Upon arrival at the Ananda Samakom Throne Hall, His Majesty was greeted by royal family members, privy councilors and dignitaries. His Royal Highness the Crown Prince then delivered a speech wishing the king a happy birthday, which was followed those of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, the parliament president and president of the Supreme Court. An oath of allegiance by Royal guards, led by supreme military commander, was then delivered, before His Majesty departed while the King’s anthem was played. (TNA)