Press Release: Foreign Media Reports on the Passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej

15/10/2016

While there have been news reports that thousands of Thais have gathered to mourn the loss of King Bhumibol Adulyadej at the Royal Palace, the actual number is far greater than what was reported. Millions of Thais across the nation have gathered together to mourn the loss of the revered King. Hundreds of thousands have lined up along the route where his funeral procession moved from Siriraj Hospital to the Grand Palace while the rest of the nation solemnly watched the live broadcast.  Many waited all night along the street pavements to secure a spot where they could give a final tribute to the beloved King who has been a uniting force and spiritual pillar of the Thai people, the Nation’s Heart and Soul who had worked tirelessly for the people and the country.  In preparation for the upcoming days the government is doing its utmost to facilitate the continuous flow of people from all over the country who will be arriving to pay their tributes. The number of arrivals is expected to be in the millions.

 
It has been found that some big foreign media have been reporting erroneous or false information and accusations that are of a manipulative and provocative nature. This is highly inappropriate, especially during this period of national mourning. Such practices are not only unethical but also unprofessional, insensitive to the feelings of the Thai people and offensive towards Thai cultural traditions. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs deplores such actions as they reflect the prejudice of the author(s) and agencies and request that they refrain from such practice.
 

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