Thailand's Queen Mother Sirikit dies at 93 after more than a decade out of the public eye

"Thailand's Queen Mother Sirikit, who brought glamour to a postwar revival in the country's monarchy and who, in later years, would occasionally wade into politics, has died aged 93, the Thai Royal Household bureau has announced. The palace said she had been hospitalised since 2019 due to several illnesses and developed a bloodstream infection on 17bOctober before passing away late on Friday."

"Born in 1932, the year Thailand transitioned to a constitutional monarchy from an absolute monarchy, Sirikit Kitiyakara was the daughter of Thailand's ambassador to France and led a life of wealth and privilege. While studying music and language in Paris she met Bhumibol, who had spent parts of his childhood in Switzerland. It was hate at first sight, she said in a BBC documentary, noting that he had arrived late to their first meeting."

"Her death will be treated with reverence in a country where any criticism is held at bay by strictly enforced lese-majesty laws, which prescribe potential prison sentences for insulting royals, even those who are dead. King Bhumibol reviews a parade with Queen Sirikit to mark his birthday in Bangkok in 2006. Photograph: Chaiwat Subprasom/Reuters Born in 1932, the year Thailand transitioned to a constitutional monarchy"

Queen Mother Sirikit died aged 93 after being hospitalised since 2019 and developing a bloodstream infection on 17 October. A one-year mourning period has been declared for members of the royal family and household. The prime minister cancelled a planned trip to an ASEAN leaders' summit because of her death. She had been out of the public eye since a stroke in 2012. Her husband, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, reigned for 70 years from 1946. She is remembered for charitable work and as a symbol of maternal virtue. Strict lese‑majesty laws limit public criticism of the monarchy.

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