Thailand's King Bhumibol Falls Under Ill Health-Surprising Power Struggle Ensues - The longest-reigning monarch in the entire world, the man that Thailand has known as their leader for more than sixty years, just celebrated his 80th birthday. Because King Bhumibol has been struggling with his health for some time now, his most recent illness is leading to a secretive power struggle as several different political figures vie for the same throne. Although King Bhumibol has not left his place as the king of Thailand, it is imperative that the country be prepared to replace him when the time does come. A coup was recently enacted in Thailand, and the first election to come up since the event is not far off. This has given way to a power struggle between several figures in Thai politics, including the King's son and daughter, General Prem who is the president of the Privy Council, and Thaksin Shinawatra, a political figure in the country.