Why doesn't the king of Thailand have an official function?

Question

He seems to be well-liked, and the Thai royal family seems to offer a stability that a lot of other countries could use. But he doesn't even have a ceremonial role, really. What gives?

Answer 1

Maybe its due to his influences and role in Thai politics. Although Bhumibol is a constitutional monarch, he has several times made decisive interventions in Thai politics, including the 2005-2006 Thai political crisis.

Read more at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhumibol_Ad...

Answer 2

Living in Thailand the past few years, it seems the King has had much more than just a ceremonial role for the past 60 years!  Of course now, he's an old man, and will be celebrating his 80th Birthday  5 December, (tomorrow).  He not only has the power to intervene in political issues, and has, but he plays a central role in the religious life here also.  Many of the Royal Family are quite active, and it seems quite powerful people in this country.