Vajiralongkorn, Crown Prince of Thailand

Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn (born July 28, 1952) is the only son of Bhumibol Adulyadej, King (Rama IX) of Thailand, and Queen Sirikit. He was given the title Somdech Phra Boroma Orasadhiraj Chao Fah Maha Vajiralongkorn Sayam Makutrajakuman by the King on 28th December 1972, making him the Crown Prince and heir to the throne (the suffix Sayam Makutrajakuman in his title is the official title for the Crown Prince in Thailand).

Achievements

Vajiralongkorn now holds the ranks of General in the Royal Thai Army, Admiral in the Royal Thai Navy and Air Chief Marshall in the Royal Thai Air Force. His military role in recent years has become increasingly ceremonial. As his father has grown older, turning 78 in 2005, Vajiralongkorn has taken a more prominent part in royal ceremonial and public appearances.

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Although the subject is never publicly discussed in Thailand, most observers believe that Vajiralongkorn shares none of the enormous popularity of his parents among the Thai public. This is partly because of his career as a military officer at a time when the public have turned against Thailand's long history of military rule, partly because of his irregular private life, and partly because he is seen as a cold and remote personality.

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The Economist wrote in 2002: "Vajiralongkorn is held in much less esteem . Bangkok gossips like to swap tales of his lurid personal life. One of his sisters, another possible heir to the throne, is more popular, but Thailand has never been ruled by a woman. Besides, no successor, however worthy, can hope to equal the stature King Bhumibol has attained after 55 years on the throne."

Related Topics:
The Economist - 2002

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