Suthep ordained as monk
July 16, 2014
Bangkok Post
People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) protest group leader Suthep Thaugsuban was ordained as monk in a low-key ceremony at Wat Ta Sai in Muang district of Surat Thani Tuesday.
Anti-government protest group leader Suthep Thaugsuban, left, wears saffron robes after being ordained as a monk at Wat Ta Sai yesterday. Supapong Chaolan
A source close to Phra Suthep said the ordination ceremony was arranged with Alongkorn Setcheao, Phra Suthep's cousin, the only relative present.
Phra Suthep, who has been given the monastic name "Prapakaro" (the one with the enlightened mind), will spend his time as a monk at Wat Suan Mokkh Kapanaran, also in Surat Thani.
The abbot of Wat Suan Mokkh, Phra Athikarnsuchart Panyatheeto, said he was contacted by Phra Suthep’s cousin who said the protest leader intended to become a monk.
The source said Phra Suthep was ordained as a gesture to make merit for those who perished during the PDRC's seven-month street protests.
His ordination came a surprise to most people, including his wife, Srisakul Prompan, who insisted she had no idea of Phra Suthep's plans to enter the monkhood.
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Suthep ordained as monk | Bangkok Post: news