Former parliament president and Democrat leader Bhichai Rattakul died yesterday at Siriraj Hospital. He was 96.
Bhichai died peacefully about two after being admitted to the hospital for lung cancer treatment, his son, Bhichit Rattakul, said.
Born on Sept 19, 1926, Bhichai completed his studies at Bangkok Christian College before pursuing a degree in commerce at St Stephen's College in Hong Kong. Upon graduation, he returned to help run his family business.
Bhichai: Served as deputy PM
Bhichai was named Democrat Party leader in 1982 succeeding Thanat Khorman and headed the party until 1991. During this period the Democrats joined the government and Bhichit served as a deputy prime minister.
However, the party under his leadership was blighted by an internal conflict which led to the formation of a splinter group known as the Jan 10 faction led by Veera Musikapong.
When Chuan Leekpai became prime minister for a second term following the collapse of the Chavalit Yongchaiyudh administration in late 1997, Bhichai was made a deputy prime minister in charge of foreign affairs. He also served as parliament president.