Grief, mourning as Prem’s body arrives at Wat Benchamabophit for bathing rite

Grief, mourning as Prem’s body arrives at Wat Benchamabophit for bathing rite

By The Nation

Grief and mourning filled the air as the body of late statesman General Prem Tinsulanonda arrived at Wat Benchamabophit in Bangkok on Monday.

Prem’s body, covered by the national flag, was moved from Phramongkutklao Hospital to the temple, where a royally sponsored bathing rite is scheduled to take place later today.

Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha and his wife Naraporn, along with other public figures, including privy councillors, Cabinet members, court chiefs, the chief of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, leading businessmen, politicians, civil servants as well as Thai citizens, were waiting to bathe the late elder statesman. 

Prem, one of Thailand’s most influential political figures for over four decades, who served as Army commander, prime minister and adviser to the Palace, passed away at the age of 98 on Sunday. 

The funeral rite will be held from May 27-June 2.

Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/detail/politics/30370064