Sarit Thanarat - Sarit's Demise and Aftermath

Sarit's Demise and Aftermath

Sarit died unexpectedly in late 1963 from liver failure, just as his economic measures were proving successful. Power transferred peacefully to his deputy generals, Thanom Kittikachorn, who became Prime Minister, and Praphas Charusathian, who became Deputy Prime Minister. Thanom and Praphas maintained Sarit's authoritarian style of government, his anti-communism and pro-American policies.

Sarit's relationship with King Bhumibol was evident when the King ordered 21 days of official mourning in the palace after his death, with Sarit's body lying in state under royal patronage for 100 days and their Majesties the King and Queen attending his cremation on March 17, 1964.