King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand died on 13 October 2016 after a long illness. Following his death, many sovereign countries and organisations sent a message of condolences.
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha made a speech following the king death in a national mourning announcement:
His Majesty the King brought people from their hopelessness to their determination, security and courage to cope with obstacles. The reign was a period of comprehensive national development. His Majesty was the beloved King who was the spiritual centre of all Thai people. It was really a 70-year period of righteous reign for the benefit and happiness of Thai people. 13 October will be in the memory of Thai people for good. It was a 70-year period of limitless public benefit and now it is limitless sorrow for the people. The government will inform the National Legislative Assembly that His Majesty the King had appointed the heir in accordance with the royal law on 28 December 1972, and then the National Legislative Assembly will take the relevant action. Please take the opportunity to boost one another's morale. All of us share the same feelings because we have our common father of the nation. Please help protect national peace and do not let anyone trigger conflicts that would lead to turmoil. Thai people. His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, King Rama IX, has passed away. Long live the new king. [1]
Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms sent a private message of condolence to Queen Sirikit and upcoming heir Vajiralongkorn.[citation needed]
The 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet expressed sadness on learning of the passing away of the King and offered condolences to the members of the royal family and Thai people.[70]