Coverage of Thai monarchy should not mix the personal with the national

As a regular reader of the South China Morning Post, your article titled “Is Germany about to lose patience with Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn?”, dated October 24, has compelled me to offer the following facts:

Firstly, as head of state, His Majesty the King of Thailand is a monarch who “reigns but does not rule”, and performs only ceremonial duties similar to the British sovereign. In his role as a constitutional monarch, His Majesty the King does not involve himself in politics and the daily administration of the state, which are the responsibilities of the prime minister and the government.

Secondly, contrary to rhetorical speculation shared in social media and various news outlets, Thailand and Germany enjoy a long-standing friendship based on deeply rooted people-to-people ties and significant mutual benefits. His Majesty the King’s visits to Germany are a private matter, and are acknowledged as such by the German authorities. During his visits, His Majesty the King always adheres to local laws and regulations as any other visitor does.

Thirdly, it is highly unfortunate that information about the monarchy has been widely distorted and inappropriately politicised. Such misinformation is not only an unfair accusation against the institution but also risks mixing the personal affairs of His Majesty the King with the bilateral relations between Thailand and Germany, which are rightfully separate issues and should therefore be avoided by all means.

Fourthly, on the current political situation in Thailand, the government is working through the parliamentary process to ensure that the issues raised by the protesters are handled thoroughly as part of an inclusive and exhaustive democratic process. Since the protesters have raised demands that do not represent the will of the majority, including the reform of the monarchy, the appropriate channel to consider these demands is through the parliament. This is necessary to prevent further escalation of confrontations between opposing sides, which have already arisen.

Lastly, it is important to note that support for the monarchy is deeply embedded in Thai society. The enduring dedication of the monarchy to improve the livelihoods of generations of Thai people has flourished into bonds of love and respect that are cherished by the entire population and universally recognised worldwide. Such profound bonds cannot be easily disregarded, as speculated by some observers.

Tull Traisorat, consul general, Royal Thai Consulate-General, Hong Kong