Thailand Bike Ride Honors Queen
VoA - News Sunday 16th August, 2015
Thailand's crown prince, in a rare public appearance, led thousands of bicyclists through the streets of Bangkok Sunday in an event billed as a tribute to his mother, Queen Sirikit, on her 83rd birthday.
Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, who is 63, navigated the cyclists through the capital's historic district in the "Bike for Mom" celebration. He was joined by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-Ocha and other members of the ruling junta.
Critics say the bike celebration was largely designed to rehabilitate the image of the prince who rarely makes public appearances.
The event comes at a time of great concern about Thailand's royal succession and the future of the country.
Both 87-year-old King Bhumibol Adulyadej and his wife are in declining health and have been absent from public life for years.
Last year, the current ruling military junta seized power from the elected government in a bloodless coup.
Organizers said that 40,000 people registered for the event in Bangkok and that more than 250,000 registered for rides held across the country.
"The event will also showcase to the world how devoted Thais are to their queen," Prayuth said.
Some material for this report came from AP and AFP.
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