<p>This article will explain the relationship between the monarchy and the armed forces in the modern reign in 2 parts: 1) royal government agencies which are directly under royal command; and 2) relations with the armed forces which the King has created through recently developed networks.</p>

<p>Seminal historian Thongchai Winichakul argues that Thailand’s many constitutions have progressively torn power from the people to be placed back in the hands of the King — &nbsp;a process seen most clearly in the latest charter.</p> <p></p>

<p>An academic has claimed that the network monarchy in Thailand played a role in the political success of Banharn Silpa-archa, the former Prime Minister who passed away recently. A politician adds that his non-confrontational strategy enabled his party to align with any government.</p> <p></p>