Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha Passes Away After Prolonged Coma, Confirm Palace Officials
Thailand’s Princess Bajrakitiyabha has passed away after being in a coma for over three years, as confirmed by the royal household. The 44-year-old princess collapsed in December 2022 due to a severely irregular heartbeat linked to a mycoplasma infection in her heart. Her death marks a significant loss for the Thai royal family, as she was seen as a prominent figure with potential influence in future succession matters.
Medical Condition and Passing
Princess Bajrakitiyabha’s health deteriorated after she collapsed while exercising with her dogs. Medical professionals attributed her condition to a severe irregular heartbeat caused by a mycoplasma infection. Despite receiving intensive care at Chulalongkorn Hospital, her health continued to decline. The palace announced her passing at 19:48 local time on the previous day, stating that the medical team had done everything possible to care for her. Her death has left a profound impact on the royal family and the nation.
Accomplishments and Advocacy
Born on December 7, 1978, Princess Bajrakitiyabha was the eldest child of King Vajiralongkorn and his first wife, Princess Soamsawali. She was well-educated, holding two postgraduate degrees from Cornell University in the United States. Her career included a brief stint at the Thai mission to the United Nations in New York, followed by roles in the Attorney-General’s offices in Thailand. From 2012 to 2014, she served as Thailand’s ambassador to Austria, where she fostered a relationship with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
The princess was a vocal advocate for penal reform, particularly focusing on vulnerable women in the criminal justice system. She highlighted the issue of Thailand’s high female inmate population and worked to reform harsh sentencing laws, especially concerning minor drug offenses. Upon her return to Thailand, she became the UNODC’s Ambassador for the Rule of Law in Southeast Asia, continuing her advocacy for justice reform.
Speculation on Succession
Princess Bajrakitiyabha’s capabilities and her father’s apparent trust in her made her a central figure in discussions about the royal succession. King Vajiralongkorn, aged 73, has yet to name an heir. Traditionally, Thai custom favors a male successor, but a constitutional amendment in 1974 allows for a female to ascend the throne. The king has five sons, but four were disowned in 1996, leaving his fifth son, Dipangkorn, as the presumed heir. However, doubts about his readiness for the role persist.
Many royalists viewed Princess Bajrakitiyabha as a promising candidate for succession, either as queen or as a regent to assist Prince Dipangkorn. Her death raises uncertainties about the future of the monarchy, especially given the strict lese majeste laws in Thailand, which limit public discourse on such matters.
Legacy and Impact
The passing of Princess Bajrakitiyabha leaves a significant void in the Thai royal family and raises questions about the future of the monarchy. Her dedication to legal reform and advocacy for women’s rights showcased her commitment to improving the lives of many in Thailand. As a fitness enthusiast and a respected figure, she inspired many through her public engagements and initiatives. Her death not only impacts the royal family but also the broader societal discussions surrounding succession and the role of women in leadership within the monarchy. The future remains uncertain as Thailand navigates these complex issues in the wake of her loss.
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