Constitution Day in Thailand falls on December 10th, to commemorate the promulgation of the country’s first permanent Constitution on December 10th 1932, which was signed by King Prajadhipok (King Rama VII), who acknowledged the change from absolute monarchy to a democratic form of government with the King as Head of State under the Constitution.
Thailand’s Constitution originated from a political transition in 1932. The transition was a result of the first World War which caused worldwide economic depression and affected Thailand.
As a result, the government had to depose some government officials and legislate new laws to collect taxes, including property tax and land tax, from citizens. As this caused discontent among military officers and the general public, King Rama VII decided to promulgate a Constitution to be used as a basis for the laws in Thailand.
His Majesty’s royal speech on the Day of the Constitution
“I am willing to give up my powers which were originally mine to the people in general. But I do not consent to extending my powers to any particular group in order to exercise that power in vain. And without listening to the true voice of the people “
Consequently, on Constitution Day each year, people will make merit for King Rama VII.
