AKIPRESS.COM - Thailand's military government has invited Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn to become the next king, with ascension to the throne likely to happen later this week, says ABC.

The death of the much-loved King Bhumibol last month plunged the South East Asian nation into mourning.

There are more procedural steps to go, but this ends years of speculation about whether Thailand will enjoy a smooth succession.

The government's cabinet met today and asked the President of Parliament to invite Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn to become king.

"We expect an audience [with the prince] within the next one to two days," Defense Minister Prawit Wongsuwan Prawit said.

The prince will then have to accept the invitation in order for him to be proclaimed king.

The Crown Prince is currently in Germany, where he has spent much time in recent years, and is expected to fly back to Bangkok later this week.

The prince has not spoken publicly since his father's death and news about his plans has come through the government.

Prime Minister General Prayuth Chan-o-cha said last month the prince had asked to delay the succession in order to grieve with the public.

The Crown Prince will be formally considered king once he accepts the invitation to ascend the throne, but there will be a separate coronation ceremony next year, after his father's cremation.