BREAKING NEWS

Thai king's death will not affect election timeline

By REUTERS

OCTOBER 17, 2016 06:21

BANGKOK - A general election will take place in Thailand next year as planned by the ruling junta, local media reported on Monday, while Thais grieved over the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej who died last week after seven decades on the throne.

The death of King Bhumibol, the world's longest-reigning monarch, had raised questions over whether a return to civilian rule could be delayed and elections planned for 2017 might be pushed back by the military-led government.

Thailand has begun a year of mourning for King Bhumibol, whose death at the age of 88 was announced by the palace on Thursday.

The cabinet has asked that "festivities" be avoided for the next 30 days and people have been asked to wear black during this period.

The Bangkok Post newspaper reported on Monday that the monarch's death had not affected plans for a general election next year.

"The government has reaffirmed its commitment to following the roadmap for general elections scheduled for late next year," the paper said.

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