Thai Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, 64, has become the country’s new king, succeeding his much-revered late father King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

He accepted the throne in a televised broadcast following an invitation from parliament, formalising his accession.

King Bhumibol, the world’s longest-reigning monarch, died on 13 October.

The late king was widely seen as a pillar of stability during seven decades of political turmoil in Thailand.

The crown prince had been expected to become the next king the day after his father’s death, but Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha at the time said that he had asked to delay the official proclamation so he could mourn.