Democracy ‘erased but not forgotten’ 88 years after revolution
Over two hundred activists gathered at the Democracy Monument in Bangkok today to mark the 88th anniversary of Thai democracy, ushered in by Siamese Revolution of June 24, 1932.
Under the theme “Erased but not forgotten’, the activists projected footage of the June 24, 1932 declaration that ended the absolute rule of King Prajadhipok (Rama VII).
After the "democratic revolution" of 1932, the country officially became a constitutional monarchy with a prime minister as the head of government.
The revolution’s leaders were a mix of bureaucrats and young military officers, who urged national reforms including the country’s first written constitution.
Under the changes that resulted, the King remains the titular head of state, but a constitutional government rules the country with a prime minister at its head.
Thailand’s first general election was held in 1933.
Following the 2014 military coup, several public monuments and plaques marking the democratic revolution have disappeared without explanation.