The evolution of the Thai monarchy in the constitutional period, 1932-present

The 1932 coup put an end to the age-old Thai absolute monarchy. Since then, the Thai political environment has become one where the instruments of control and change have been shifted from the royal elite to the hands of the bureaucrats. The resurgence of the monarchy can be explained with reference to the unique status of the monarchical institution as the supreme source of legitimacy, the incessant conflict among the new elite groups, and the personality and conducts of King Bhumibol. A direct consequence of the monarchical resurgence is that the monarchy has become gradually involved in politics. This also caused apprehension that the active involvement of the monarchy in politics in the long run will tarnish its legitimacy and role as a unifying national symbol. The monarchy could be alienated from its body politic if the King does not simultaneously take into account the political implications and consequences of his political action. (Abstract shortened with permission of author.).