Thailand mourns Princess Bajrakitiyabha, the king's presumed successor

Thailand is in mourning following the critical illness of Princess Bajrakitiyabha, the King's eldest daughter and widely seen as the heir presumptive to the throne.

The 44-year-old princess was admitted to hospital in December after collapsing due to a severe heart condition. Royal household physicians have been treating her, but her condition remains serious.

Her illness has cast a shadow over the future of the Thai monarchy, with concerns mounting about the royal succession. King Vajiralongkorn, who is 70, has no male heirs from his previous marriages, making Princess Bajrakitiyabha the most likely successor.

The princess is a respected figure in Thailand, known for her work in human rights and law. She holds a law degree from Cornell University and has served as Thailand's ambassador to Austria. Her potential reign has been viewed with hope by many Thais, who see her as a modern and capable leader.