Fears for Thai King after birthday speech cancelled
Posted
Updated
Too ill to speak: Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej (AFP)
The people of Thailand will share a rare moment of unity today, as they celebrate the 81st birthday of their beloved King.
But there are growing concerns about the monarch's health after he failed to make his usual birthday speech.
Every year on the eve of his birthday, King Bhumibol Adulyadej addresses the nation.
He often has a message of peace or unity.
Last night, the King did not attend Chitralada Palace, where VIPs had gathered.
Instead his son, the Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn, addressed them and the nation, thanking everyone for their loyalty.
He asked people to do their duty with a "strong mind", to do their best for the country and the people.
His daughter, the Crown Princess, explained to them that the King was "slightly ill" and was under doctor's orders to rest after suffering from a throat infection.
Earlier in the week the King had presided over the inspection of the Royal Guards.
There was great expectation about this year's speech because Thailand is embroiled in a major political crisis.
The airports were shutdown by anti-government protesters for more than a week, while three of the ruling political parties were dissolved for vote buying in last year's election.
Search for news
ABC News Online takes a look at the big stories from 2008.
