Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha dies at 47 after prolonged illness

Thailand‍‍`s royal family is mourning the loss of Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol, the eldest daughter of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, who has died at the age of 47 after spending more than three years in hospital.

The Royal Household announced on Friday that the princess passed away peacefully on Thursday evening following a prolonged battle with serious health complications linked to an abdominal infection.

According to the palace, her condition gradually deteriorated despite ongoing medical treatment. In recent months, she had been dependent on advanced medical support for vital organ functions.

The princess, widely known in Thailand as "Princess Bha," had been hospitalized since December 2022 after suddenly falling ill. Her health remained a matter of national concern throughout her lengthy treatment.

Royal officials said her body will lie in state at the Grand Palace in Bangkok, where members of the public and dignitaries will be able to pay their respects. Funeral ceremonies will be conducted with full royal honors in accordance with longstanding traditions.

Princess Bajrakitiyabha was the only child from King Vajiralongkorn‍‍`s first marriage to Princess Soamsawali. Beyond her royal duties, she built a distinguished career in law, diplomacy and public service.

Educated in Thailand, the United Kingdom and the United States, she earned a law degree from Cornell University and later worked as a prosecutor before entering diplomatic service. She also served as Thailand‍‍`s ambassador to Austria.

Throughout her career, the princess was involved in a number of international initiatives, including work with the United Nations. She was particularly recognized for her advocacy on women‍‍`s rights and prison reform.

Within Thailand‍‍`s royal institution, Princess Bajrakitiyabha held a prominent ceremonial role and was regarded as one of the most visible members of the royal family. She was also considered to have a close relationship with her father and held senior responsibilities within the royal bodyguard command.

Her death marks a significant loss for Thailand‍‍`s monarchy and public life, bringing to a close the career of a royal figure who combined legal, diplomatic and humanitarian work with her royal responsibilities.

The palace has not announced further details regarding the period of mourning or upcoming funeral ceremonies.