Thai princess Bajrakitiyabha dies after three-year coma

Thailand’s Princess Bajrakitiyabha has died at the age of 47. She had been in a coma for more than three years. The Royal Household confirmed her death

Thailand’s Princess Bajrakitiyabha has died at the age of 47. She had been in a coma for more than three years. The Royal Household confirmed her death.

She was the eldest daughter of King Vajiralongkorn. She collapsed in December 2022 while exercising with her dogs. Doctors later said she suffered a severe heart condition caused by a mycoplasma infection.

Despite continuous treatment, her condition kept worsening over time. She remained under intensive medical care at Chulalongkorn Hospital in Bangkok until her death.

Princess Bajrakitiyabha was widely respected in Thailand. She was seen as one of the most accomplished members of the royal family. She had a strong academic and professional background.

She studied law and earned postgraduate degrees from Cornell University in the United States. She worked in Thailand’s Attorney-General’s office after returning home.

She also served as Thailand’s ambassador to Austria from 2012 to 2014. During her diplomatic career, she worked closely with United Nations agencies. She focused on legal reform and justice issues.

She was known for her advocacy on prison reform. She highlighted the conditions of female prisoners and called for improvements in the justice system.

The princess also held senior roles within the royal security structure. She was appointed chief of staff in the King’s personal bodyguard unit and held the rank of general.

She was considered a possible figure in Thailand’s future royal succession. However, King Vajiralongkorn has not formally named an heir. Her death has renewed public attention on the issue of succession.

The Royal Household said she passed away peacefully in hospital. Funeral and mourning arrangements are expected to be announced later.