Thailand's Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati, the King's eldest daughter, has passed away at the age of 47 after a prolonged illness, the Royal Palace announced on Thursday, January 12, 2023. The beloved princess, known for her extensive charity work and legal career, had been admitted to hospital in December 2022 following a heart condition that led to her losing consciousness. Her passing marks a significant moment for the Thai monarchy and the nation, as she was widely seen as a potential successor to her father, King Maha Vajiralongkorn.
Princess Bajrakitiyabha, often affectionately referred to as Princess 'Bha', was born in 1978 and is the daughter of the King and his first wife, Princess Soamsawali Kitiyakara. She pursued higher education in both Thailand and the United States, earning degrees from universities like Georgetown and Thammasat. Her career spanned various roles, including a stint as a prosecutor and later as Thailand's ambassador to Austria. She was also a prominent advocate for women's rights and HIV/AIDS awareness, founding several foundations dedicated to these causes. Her public service and dedication had earned her widespread respect and admiration both domestically and internationally.
The news of her death has sent ripples of sorrow across Thailand. The Royal Household Bureau stated that the public would be allowed to pay their respects to the princess at the Grand Palace for a period, though specific dates are yet to be announced. The prolonged illness and subsequent passing of Princess Bajrakitiyabha raise questions about the future line of succession for the Thai throne. While the King has other children, Princess Bajrakitiyabha's prominent public profile and extensive engagement with royal duties had positioned her as a leading contender.
How do you think the passing of Princess Bajrakitiyabha will shape the future of the Thai monarchy?