Thai PM: Crown prince coronation 'delayed for a year'

Thailand's Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said the coronation of Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn could be delayed by one year, following his request for time to grieve for his late father King Bhumibol Adulyadej, SBS reported on Sunday.

In a televised address, the premier said he and the former prime minister Prem Tinsulanonda had been granted an audience with Vajiralongkorn in which the prince urged Thais not to worry about the vacant throne.

"His Royal Highness told me he did not wish Thais to be confused or concerned about governing matters including the royal succession," Prayut said.

"With regard to timing, His Royal Highness would like all Thais to use this time to reflect on the precious memories ... over the past 70 years of the reign," Prayut said.

"After the royal funeral rites conclude in one year's time, it would be the appropriate time," he said, referring to the coronation of the crown prince.

Former Thai prime minister Prem Tinsulanonda assumed the role of regent in accordance with the constitution on Saturday, two days after Bhumibol's death.

Prem, 96, is the head of the privy council that advises the king.

Source: MENA