The apparent sudden death on December 14 of Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha, the eldest daughter of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, has thrown the royal succession of the massively wealthy Chakri dynasty into confusion and raised the possibility of an economic slowdown just at the time the economy is starting to emerge from Covid-19 related problems.
According to a palace statement, the princess remains in hospital, receiving support for her heart, lungs, and kidneys. Prayers have been organized across the country in a massive outpouring for her recovery, with Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and other officials visiting Chulalongkorn Hospital to present offerings. However, she is widely believed in Bangkok to have died.