King Bhumibol is respected
[2][3]
and
revered by most Thais.
[4]
The King is
legally considered "inviolable", and lèse
majesté, that is, offence against the
dignity of the monarch, may be
punished.
[4]
In 1957, the overthrow of
the government was justified with
allegations of lèse majesté.
[5][6]
Although Bhumibol invited public
criticism in a 2005 speech,
[7]
politicians
and individuals are still being arrested
over claims of lèse majesté.