BANGKOK, May 29 (TNA) – Thai people mourn the passing of General Prem Tinsulanonda, statesman and President of the Privy Council of Thailand.
Mourners have continued to pay tribute to the much-respected statesman who died of heart failure on Sunday at the age of 98 as a royally-sponsored funeral is held at Wat Benchamabophit temple from Monday to June 2. 
At many locations nationwide, people have signed book of condolences and laid flowers. His residence in Bangkok, a large crowd gathered in remembrance of the 16th prime minister.
The mourners learned about Gen Prem’s last contribution to the nation. His aides said Gen Prem had planned to donate the about Bt100 million he saved from his salaries for prime minister, privy councilor and other posts to the poor and for public interest.
Across Thailand, people paid their respects to one of Thailand’s most influential political figures for over four decades. At his home province, Songkhla, residents planned memorial services for Gen Prem.
A large banner is erected showing a portrait of Gen Prem and his famous words “born on this land, we must repay to this land.”
The 21-day mourning period in honour of the late statesman began on Monday when his body, covered with a national flag, was moved from a hospital for the funeral.
Buddhist prayers and funeral rituals will be held every evening until June 2. (TNA)
