Wissanu, who was secretary-general of Cabinet for several governments, said he was helped by Yuwadee when he was appointed deputy premier in the Thaksin and Prayut governments.

He said Yuwadee was a bridge linking governments and junior reporters, helping communications and making both sides understand each other better.

“I had known her for many years. She was an important figure in media outlets. She worked until last minute of her life. I feel sorry for her family,” he said.

Yuwadee, who had covered political news at Government House for more than 40 years, died in hospital on Friday morning.