From Dispatch Room
Thailand’s royal household has announced the death of Princess Bajrakitiyabha, the eldest daughter of King Vajiralongkorn, after more than three years in a coma. She was 47.
According to a statement issued by the royal household, the princess passed away at Chulalongkorn Hospital in Bangkok on Thursday evening after her condition progressively deteriorated despite intensive medical care.
Princess Bajrakitiyabha collapsed in December 2022 while exercising her dogs. Doctors later attributed the incident to a severe heart rhythm disorder caused by a mycoplasma infection affecting her heart. She remained unconscious and under medical supervision for more than three years.
Widely regarded as one of the most accomplished members of Thailand’s royal family, Princess Bajrakitiyabha built a distinguished career in law, diplomacy and public service. She earned postgraduate degrees from Cornell University and worked with Thailand’s mission to the United Nations before serving in the country’s Attorney-General’s office.
The princess later served as Thailand’s ambassador to Austria and developed strong ties with international organisations, including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. She became a prominent advocate for prison reform, particularly concerning women inmates and vulnerable offenders within the criminal justice system.
In recognition of her service, King Vajiralongkorn appointed her Chief of Staff in his private bodyguard unit in 2021, granting her the rank of general.
Princess Bajrakitiyabha’s intelligence, leadership qualities and public service record led many observers to view her as a potentially important figure in Thailand’s future royal succession. Although Thai tradition generally favours a male heir, constitutional provisions allow for the possibility of a female monarch.
Her death has renewed questions surrounding the future succession of the Thai throne. King Vajiralongkorn, who is 73, has not formally named an heir.
Across Thailand, tributes have poured in from government officials, royal supporters and members of the public, many of whom remembered the princess for her dedication to legal reform, public welfare and national service.
Her passing marks the end of a remarkable career in public life and represents a significant loss for Thailand’s royal family and institutions.
— Newspot Nigeria
