Thailand Mourns the Loss of Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol

Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol, the eldest daughter of Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn, passed away at 47 after an illness that led to a three-year coma. The Royal Household Bureau confirmed her death on Thursday evening at a Bangkok hospital, where she had received care since falling unconscious. Her passing has prompted an outpouring of grief across the nation, with many remembering her dedication to public service and legal reforms.

A Life Dedicated to Public Service and Justice

Born on December 7, 1978, to then-Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn and Princess Soamsawali, Princess Bajrakitiyabha was affectionately known as Bha or Patty. She garnered immense popularity among the Thai populace for her commitment to social welfare and justice initiatives. Notably, her 'Kamlangjai' or 'Inspire' campaign focused on rehabilitating incarcerated Thai women, assisting them in their reintegration into society upon release. This work distinguished her from some other royal figures, who are often perceived as more removed from the daily lives of ordinary Thais.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, in a televised address, lauded the late princess as a "pride of Thailand." He emphasized that her "commitment to building a society of kindness, justice and equality will forever remain as a moral legacy for the nation, a guiding light for generations of Thais." This sentiment reflects the widespread respect and admiration she commanded.

An Accomplished Legal and Diplomatic Career

Princess Bajrakitiyabha pursued higher education in law at Cornell University, a foundation that would shape much of her professional life. In the early 2000s, she served a brief tenure at the Thai Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York. Upon her return to Thailand, she took on the role of attorney general for Udon Thani Province, further solidifying her commitment to the legal system.

Her diplomatic career saw her serve as Thailand's ambassador to Austria from 2012 to 2014. In 2017, she was appointed as a goodwill ambassador for the UN Office on Drugs and Crime. Her advocacy on behalf of female prisoners led to a significant international achievement: the adoption of the "Bangkok Rules" by the UN General Assembly in 2010. These rules provide guidelines for the treatment and conditions of women in correctional facilities, marking a lasting legacy of her humanitarian efforts.

Succession and Royal Dynamics

While traditional royal succession in Thailand generally favors male heirs, a recent constitutional amendment had opened the possibility for Princess Bajrakitiyabha to become Thailand's first female monarch. Al Jazeera's Tony Cheng, reporting from Bangkok, highlighted her active involvement in numerous charities and her ability to connect with the populace. Kasidit Ananthanathorn, a lecturer at Ramkhamhaeng University, noted, "She made people feel like the royal family can at least be useful to the people."

With her passing, the presumptive heir to the throne is now her younger half-brother, 21-year-old Dipangkorn Rasmijoti. Born to King Vajiralongkorn and his third legal wife, Srirasmi Suwadee, Prince Dipangkorn has largely remained out of the public eye.

National Mourning and Public Remembrance

The announcement of Princess Bajrakitiyabha's death prompted an immediate public display of grief. Mourners gathered at the King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital in Bangkok, where she had been receiving treatment. Many held framed photographs of the princess, reflecting on her life and contributions.

Pattamaporn Kaewkityakorn, who spent the night at the hospital, expressed her sorrow to The Associated Press, stating, "I know she was sick, but I wished there were a miracle." Her words encapsulated the widespread hope and subsequent sadness felt by many Thais, who admired the princess for her dedication and compassion.

Her passing marks a significant moment for the Thai monarchy and the nation, as citizens reflect on the profound impact she had through her unwavering commitment to justice, welfare, and public service.

Source: Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha dies at 47 after three years in coma