Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati, popularly known as Princess Bha, has died at the age of 47 after remaining in a coma for more than three years. The Thai royal palace announced her death on Thursday, bringing to an end a long period of uncertainty that began when she collapsed while running with her dogs in northern Thailand in December 2022. The princess had remained on life support ever since.
Her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes, but it has also raised questions about the future of Thailand's monarchy. As the eldest child of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, Princess Bha was regarded by many observers as a potential successor to the throne. Her reputation, professional achievements, and position within the royal family had led some to view her as a figure capable of guiding the monarchy into a new era. With her passing, attention has once again turned to the complicated issue of royal succession in Thailand.
