Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha passes away
Thailand is mourning the passing of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati, the eldest daughter of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, who died at the age of 47 following a prolonged period of medical care.
The Bureau of the Royal Household announced that Her Royal Highness passed away at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital in Bangkok at 7:48 p.m. on Thursday, June 11. She had been receiving medical care at the hospital since December 2022.
Born in December 1978, Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha was widely known as Princess Bha. She was the eldest child of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn and was among the most internationally recognized members of Thailand’s Royal Family.
Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha built a distinguished career in law, diplomacy, public service, and humanitarian work. Her Royal Highness earned advanced legal degrees from Cornell University in the United States, including a doctorate in law, before serving in Thailand’s Office of the Attorney-General.
She later represented Thailand as ambassador to Austria, Slovenia, and Slovakia, strengthening Thailand’s diplomatic presence in Europe.
Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha was also respected internationally for her work on justice reform and the treatment of women in prison. She supported initiatives focused on female inmates, vulnerable women, and access to justice, and served as a United Nations goodwill ambassador. Her Royal Highness’s advocacy helped draw global attention to the rights and conditions of women within the criminal justice system.
In Thailand, the passing of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha has prompted a period of national grief. Mourners gathered in Bangkok as Her Royal Highness’s body was moved from King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital to the Grand Palace, where royal funeral rites are being held. Thousands lined the streets to pay their respects during the procession.
Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha will be remembered for Her service to Thailand, legal and diplomatic work, and commitment to improving the lives of women and vulnerable people.
ZOSMA News extends its deepest condolences to the Royal Family and to the people of Thailand during this time of national mourning.
