Key facts
- Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol, eldest daughter of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, died at 47.
- She had been hospitalized since December 2022 due to a mycoplasma infection affecting lung and kidney functions.
- The princess was known for her advocacy for women's rights and the rights of the accused.
- Her funeral will be conducted with full royal honors at the Grand Palace in Bangkok.
Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol, the eldest daughter of King Maha Vajiralongkorn and a prominent figure in Thailand, has died at the age of 47. The royal palace announced her passing on Friday, stating she died peacefully on Thursday evening after a prolonged battle with a mycoplasma infection. The princess had been hospitalized since December 2022, with the infection impacting her lung and kidney functions, necessitating the use of medical devices.
Known as Princess Bha, she was a vocal advocate for women's rights, particularly against domestic violence, and championed the rights of the accused. Her academic work at Cornell University focused on these issues, leading to the UN General Assembly adopting the "Bangkok Rules" on the care of female prisoners. She also pursued careers as a prosecutor and diplomat, serving as Thailand's ambassador to Austria.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed deep national grief, calling the princess the "pride of Thailand" and highlighting her legacy of kindness, justice, and equality. Mourners gathered at Chulalongkorn Hospital to pay their respects. Her funeral is scheduled to be held with full royal honors at the Grand Palace in Bangkok.