Former Thai PM dies at 98

Formidable leader: Prem casting his ballot during early voting in Bangkok ahead of the March 24 general election. His death at a Bangkok hospital was announced by the government’s Public Relations Depart­ment. — AP

BANGKOK: Prem Tinsulanonda, one of Thailand’s most influential political figures over four decades who served as army commander, prime minister and adviser to the royal palace, has died at age 98.

His death yesterday at a Bangkok hospital was announced by the government’s Public Relations Depart­ment, confirming earlier unofficial reports in Thai media.