BANGKOK, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra will lead his Cabinet members to seek an audience with the King on Coronation Day this Friday, a government spokesman said Wednesday.

    Government Spokesman Surapong Suebwonglee said the caretaker premier would assume the prime minister's role at a royal ceremony in honor of King Bhumibol Adulyadej on the auspicious occasion of Coronation Day which falls on May 5.

    Coronation Day this year marks the 60th anniversary of the King's ascension to the throne.

    Caretaker premier Thaksin would also preside over the state reception in the evening and lead the nation in delivering a well-wishing statement in honor of the King at Government House, Surapong said.

    It will be the first time that Thaksin performs his official duties in his capacity as caretaker government leader since he handed over authority to Deputy Prime Minister Chidchai Vanasatidya early April.

    Despite his ruling Thai Rak Thai Party winning the inconclusive April 2 snap election, Thaksin announced two days later that he would not accept the premiership when the new parliament convenes to name a new prime minister.

    The announcement followed weeks of street protests demanding that he quit over allegations of corruption and abuse of power.

    Thaksin made the announcement just hours after meeting the nation's revered monarch, the King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The caretaker premier said he made his decision out of respect for the monarch. Enditem