Thailand’s King Maha Vajirilongkorn’s estranged son, Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, recently made a surprise visit to Bangkok after a three decade-long absence. Vacharaesorn, who had been living in the United States with his mother and siblings following his family’s estrangement from the royal family, had been stripped of his royal title and had been working as a lawyer in New York. Speculation arose when Vacharaesorn was photographed visiting a day care center for underprivileged children under royal patronage. A few days later, his younger brother, Chakriwat Vivacharawongse, also arrived in Thailand. Analysts believe that their visit may be a test to gauge public opinion for a possible permanent return to the royal family.
The timing of their visit is significant as it comes at a time of growing calls for royal reform in Thailand, particularly among younger Thais. Additionally, the country is facing a political deadlock with parties unable to form a new government three months after elections. King Vajirilongkorn, who ascended to the throne in 2016, has not named an heir apparent. His oldest child, Princess Bajrakitiyabha, remains hospitalized after suffering a severe heart arrhythmia caused by an infection.
Vacharaesorn and Chakriwat are among the four sons of King Vajirilongkorn and his second wife, Yuvadhida Polpraserth. Their sister, Princess Sirivannavari, was welcomed back to Thailand after the family’s estrangement and has frequently been seen in public with the King and Queen. Paul Handley, journalist and author of “The King Never Smiles,” notes that the brothers’ return marks a significant shift in the palace. Vacharaesorn presented himself as a common citizen during his visit, avoiding meetings with politicians, the military, and palace officials.
The visit of Vacharaesorn and Chakriwat takes place in a tense political climate in Thailand. The country has faced mass anti-government protests demanding democratic, military, and constitutional reforms. Calls for royal reform have also been a part of these protests, with protesters scrutinizing King Vajirilongkorn’s wealth and power. The progressive party Move Forward, which won the most seats in parliament, has pushed for royal reform but has been sidelined in the political process.
The return of the two sons may signify the beginning of Thailand’s endgame, as it intersects the crises of monarchy and democracy. Democracy in Thailand is being held down by royalist-conservative forces, preventing opposition parties from forming a government. The monarchy is also being challenged as its role in Thai politics is out of sync with calls for reform and an uncertain royal succession.
Vacharaesorn, a New York lawyer, has been active within the Thai community in the US and has established a foundation for Thai students to earn scholarships. Analysts believe he may have an important role in the palace in the future and could potentially become the primary heir to the throne. Chakriwat, on the other hand, is a medical doctor and has founded a medical information center to help patients understand their conditions.
The visit of Vacharaesorn and Chakriwat has sparked speculation and raised questions about the future of the Thai monarchy. As Thailand grapples with political and social challenges, the return of these estranged sons has brought attention to the need for reforms and an uncertain royal succession. Only time will tell what role they may play in the future of the monarchy.
Original Story at www.cnn.com – 2023-08-21 01:22:00
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