Queen Mother Sirikit of Thailand Dies at 93

Queen Mother Sirikit of Thailand, who left behind a legacy of style, grace, and charity, has died at the age of 93. The Bureau of the Royal Household of Thailand announced this. Her death occurred late Friday evening after being in the hospital since 2019 due to several illnesses and contracting a blood infection on October 17. A one-year mourning period has been declared for members of the royal family and courtiers.

Born in 1932, Sirikit Kitiyakara was the daughter of the Thai ambassador to France and grew up in wealth and privilege. She studied music and languages in Paris, where she met her future husband, King Bhumibol Adulyadej. They married in 1950 when Sirikit was just 17 years old. As Queen of Thailand, she was by her husband's side throughout his 70-year reign, winning the love and affection of the nation through their charitable work and public appearances. They frequently visited rural communities, and these visits were broadcast every evening, reinforcing her image as a compassionate figure. Her birthday, August 12, is celebrated as Mother's Day in Thailand.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul called the Queen's death a "great loss" for the country. The government has announced that flags at state institutions will be flown at half-mast for one month, and civil servants will observe a one-year mourning period. Entertainment venues have been asked to cease operations for one month.

Although the Thai monarchy usually avoids an overt role in politics, speculation about Sirikit's views and behind-the-scenes influence had grown amid the political instability of recent decades. In 2008, her presence at the funeral of a protester killed during clashes with police was seen by many as a demonstration of political alignment.