Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha Dies at 47 After Prolonged Hospitalisation

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Thailand's Princess Bajrakitiyabha, King Maha Vajiralongkorn's eldest daughter, died at the age of 47 after spending more than three years in hospital following an unexpected fatal fall in late 2022, the Royal Palace revealed on Friday.

The princess had been getting treatment at Bangkok's Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital since December 2022, when she fell unconscious while exercising her dogs in Nakhon Ratchasima province. According to palace authorities, her health has gradually worsened in recent months as a result of serious complications such as gastrointestinal infections, heart rhythm anomalies, low blood pressure, and blood clotting issues. She died on Thursday evening.

Princess Bajrakitiyabha, born on December 7, 1978, was widely regarded as one of the most talented members of Thailand's royal family. She received multiple legal degrees, including a PhD from Cornell University, and worked as a prosecutor, diplomat, and ambassador to Austria. She was also involved in international humanitarian efforts, including lobbying for the rights of female inmates and pushing justice reform through the United Nations.

Known popularly as ‘Princess Pa,’ she held various prestigious royal and military positions and was frequently seen representing the monarchy at key state ceremonies. Prior to her sickness, she was regarded as one of the most prominent members of the royal family, and some observers saw her as a future regent in Thailand's succession strategies.

Her body will lie in state at Bangkok's Grand Palace, according to the Royal Palace, and royal funeral rites will be performed with utmost honours in line with Thai custom.