Estranged “prince” returns

Royal World Thailand Facebook page reports on the unexpected return to Thailand of the long exiled Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, second son of Yuvadhida Polpraserth (or Sujarinee Vivacharawongse) and King Vajiralongkorn. He threw the family out of the palace and out of the country in 1996. Now the guessing on why he’s back will be extensive. He’s spent some time making out that he is king material.

Clipped from Royal World Thailand

“Royal Viral” came up on social media when Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, (or former Prince Vacharaesorn Mahidol), the second son of His Majesty King Vajiralongkorn of Thailand and his second wife Sujarinee Vivacharawongse has returned to his home country. He landed Suvarnabhumi Airport last night (6 August 2023), making his first official return in almost 30 years after moving in exile in 1996 when his parents divorced.

A video clip was on viral from the Facebook Page “ThaluWang”, a pro-democracy involved in criticising the monarchy. Vacharaesorn, escorted by security officers, was greeted by well-wishers welcoming at the airport. He received warm welcome and had a conversation before leaving. (Watch Video: https://fb.watch/mfx4J-vdJ7/?mibextid=qC1gEa).

The ex-Prince was surprised by many, as most Thais did not expect and realise his return. Online trends and discussions hence occurred on social media, especially “X (Twitter)” on the reason he comes back. There are speculations if there would be ‘a big move’ of the Royal Family.

Many royal fans know about the family life of the then Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn and his second wife Sujarinee which led to a bitter divorce in 1996 after their around 20 years of relationship. The couple have 4 sons and 1 daughter. Sujarinee took the 4 Princes to England. The Thai Ambassador to Britain received a royal command from the Crown Prince on bestowing the new surname “Vivacharawongse” to be used as ordinary people. It is presumably defined that the 4 sons were stripped the royal title, despite having no official declaration in the Royal Gazette.

The estranged family resided in England and then the United States, where they have been living as commoners. For almost 30 years, despite having low-profile life, the story of the former Princes is still among the topic of conversations.

As The King still faces negative views and decreasing popularity, and is gradually criticised by a lot of political-related issues, things around him are also raised up in the conversations, including his private life in the past, which covers his estranged sons abroad.

Vacharaesorn (42), despite being the second son, is the most active among his 4 brothers. He participates various social and religious functions, such as Thai cultural and traditional festivals held in the United States. He also attends public events which is related to the Royal Family. While receiving good feedback, Vacharaesorn is also viewed by public critics as ‘too active’ finding any chances to return home.

The surprising return of the former Prince brings netizen gathering and keeping an eye watching if there is any signal inside the royal court. The Royal Family is being discussed if there would be ‘a new move’ and ‘a new hope’ after almost 30 years of family estrangement between ‘father and son’.