The world's wealthiest monarch is rewriting the rules of his own throne
With a net worth estimated between US$30 billion and US$70 billion, King Vajiralongkorn of Thailand holds unprecedented power. Beyond his immense wealth, his reign has seen a significant centralization of royal authority, reshaping the constitutional landscape and the very nature of the Thai monarchy.
Ascending the throne following the death of King Bhumibohl Adulyadej in October 2016, Vajiralongkorn, the tenth monarch of the Chakri dynasty, has moved to consolidate royal prerogatives. His reign has been marked by a notable shift toward the centralization of power and personal wealth. Shortly after his accession, the King requested specific changes to the draft 2017 Constitution regarding royal powers and took direct ownership of vast assets previously managed by the Crown Property Bureau. He also brought essential military and security units under his direct command.
This consolidation has not been without intense friction. The King’s lifestyle and his extensive residence in Germany during the early years of his reign sparked significant international and domestic scrutiny. In 2020, Thailand witnessed unprecedented protests characterized by widespread calls for institutional reform and the loosening of strict lèse-majesté laws, which can impose prison sentences of up to 35 years for criticizing the monarchy. These tensions were further heightened by diplomatic friction, such as when the German foreign ministry expressed opposition to the King governing state affairs from German soil.
Despite these political complexities, the King maintains deep ties to Thai tradition and public service. He has continued various royal legacies, such as presiding over the Royal Ploughing Ceremony and supporting agricultural technology through the Mobile Agricultural Clinic Project. His involvement in education is equally vast; since 197rag, he has personally presented degrees to Rajabhat University graduates, a process that has seen at least 2,100,000 degrees handed out over 35 years. Through these various roles, the tenth monarch continues to navigate a delicate balance between ancient tradition and modern political upheaval.
Source: Vajiralongkorn
