History of Vajiralongkorn

King Maha Vajiralongkorn, also known as King Rama X, ascended to the Thai throne in 2016 following the death of his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Although Vajiralongkorn is primarily recognized for his role as a monarch, his influence on Thai politics is notable, primarily because of the evolving nature of the Thai monarchy's role in governance and Vajiralongkorn's unique approach to his kingship.

Before diving deeper into Vajiralongkorn's political influence, it is essential to understand the tradition of constitutional monarchy in Thailand. Since 1932, following the Siamese Revolution, Thailand has been a constitutional monarchy. However, the military and the monarchy have maintained significant power in practice. This duality has seen fluctuating dynamics over the decades, with varying degrees of military intervention and royal influence on political matters.

Vajiralongkorn, born on July 28, 1952, was educated in Thailand, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Before assuming the throne, he served in the Royal Thai Army and obtained various military ranks. During his father's reign, Vajiralongkorn was not seen as a particularly political figure, as King Bhumibol was deeply revered and wielded considerable moral authority across Thai society.

Upon King Bhumibol's passing in October 2016, Vajiralongkorn was named his successor. His reign began in a period of political instability, with Thailand under military rule following a coup in 2014 that ousted an elected government. The ruling military junta, led by General Prayuth Chan-o-cha, promised a return to civilian rule, though this transition was fraught with delays and criticisms of democratic suppression.

Vajiralongkorn's position as king has been marked by direct and indirect political actions that have subtly shaped the political landscape. He has instituted substantial changes within the palace, consolidating control over royal institutions. One of his early moves was to bring the offices of the Crown Property Bureau (CPB) under his direct control. Historically, the CPB managed assets on behalf of the monarchy, separate from the king's personal wealth. This change, sanctioned by a military-appointed parliament, significantly increased Vajiralongkorn's economic influence.

In addition to these internal changes, Vajiralongkorn's relationship with the military and the government plays a critical role in Thai politics. The king has the power to appoint members to the Privy Council, a body that advises the monarch, and he exercises influence over military appointments and promotions. This power symbolizes an interwoven relationship between the monarchy and the military, reflecting a mutual dependence that influences Thai governance.

A significant political event during Vajiralongkorn's reign was the 2019 general elections, which marked a return to nominal civilian rule under a military-backed government. The elections were criticized for being skewed in favor of maintaining military influence, with a constitution drafted under junta supervision that allowed for a senate appointed by the military. This senate played a crucial role in the selection of the prime minister, ensuring that Prayuth chan-o-cha retained power. While Vajiralongkorn remained above the explicit workings of the electoral process, his symbolism and potential influence on the military retained considerable weight.

Vajiralongkorn's reign has also witnessed unprecedented criticism of the monarchy, especially from a younger generation of Thais. Beginning in 2020, a wave of protests calling for democratic reform swept across the nation. These demonstrations were notable for their willingness to broach the traditionally taboo subject of monarchical reform. Protesters demanded changes, including the reduction of the monarchy's power and reform of the lèse-majesté law, which imposes harsh penalties for criticizing the royal family. The king's response to these protests has been watched closely, as it is a critical test of the monarchy's adaptability in modern Thailand.

In essence, Vajiralongkorn's role as a "politician" is not traditional but rather emblematic of Thailand's unique political environment, where the monarchy's moral and influential weight is considerable. His maneuvers, from consolidating economic power to navigating the monarchy's relationship with the military and government, illustrate his political influence. The king's response to the evolving demands of Thai society, especially amid calls for reform, will likely shape his legacy and the monarchy's future role in Thailand.

The future trajectory of Vajiralongkorn's reign remains uncertain. While the monarch retains significant power, the shifting landscape of Thai society, with its demands for greater democracy and transparency, presents ongoing challenges. Vajiralongkorn's ability to balance tradition with modernity, maintain the monarchy's respect, and address the evolving political aspirations of his subjects will be pivotal in defining his reign and the role of the monarchy in Thai politics in the years to come.