“The heir to the throne graciously accepted the invitation,” the prime minister said. “A kingdom should not be without a monarch on the throne. The commencement of the new reign is therefore effective as of 13 October 2016.”

The crown prince had declined to take the throne immediately after his father’s death, saying he needed time to grieve.

Thailand’s royal succession is an elaborate process that can extend for many months. King Bhumibol’s cremation will take place about a year after his death. King Vajiralongkorn’s coronation will take place at some point after that.

King Bhumibol was revered by many Thais who saw him as an advocate of the common people and a promoter of economic development. The official 30-day mourning period for the public has ended, but even now many people still wear black clothing or a black ribbon to honor him.

The country is sharply divided but the military, which has held power since a 2014 coup, remains firmly in control. King Bhumibol was a unifying figure and many Thais have been anxious about what kind of leadership they can expect from King Vajiralongkorn, who has lived primarily in Germany for years.