King Bhumibol Adulyadej was given the title "the Great" by more than 40 million of Thailand's 55 million people through a nationwide poll conducted between 1985-86. Mr. Prem Tinsulanonda, Prime Minister at that time, gave the title to His Majesty the King at a gathering at the Government Office Building to mark the 42nd anniversary of the king's coronation in May 1988. The poll said His Majesty King Bhumibol deserved to be given the title because of his competence, intelligence and love for the people.