Emperor Akihito Addresses the Nation

His Imperial Majesty Emperor Akihito of Japan has made a televised address to the people of Japan in connection with his personal views relating to his role as Emperor.

The address was pre-recorded before being televised throughout Japan earlier today.  It was only the second such address he has made since ascending the Chrysanthemum Throne 28 years ago – the first being in 2011 when the Emperor sought to give reassurance and support following the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake.

Speculation had been rising over the last few weeks about the Emperor’s apparent wish to abdicate – something that His Imperial Majesty would currently be unable to do since, under the current Constitution, there is no provision allowing the Emperor to do so.

At the start of the message, Emperor Akihito made it clear that he “must refrain from making any specific comments on the existing Imperial system, I would like to tell you what I, as an individual, have been thinking about.”

His Imperial Majesty continued by expressing his concern that his declining health would make it more and more difficult for him to carry out his duties.  He spoke of the ageing society in Japan and therefore what would be the desirable role be of an Emperor when the Emperor himself was of advanced age.

Emperor Akihito went on to say that it is impossible to continue reducing the acts he performs in matters of state and in his duties as the symbol of the State.

Most significantly, His Imperial Majesty stated that a Regency may be possible – providing the possibility that Crown Prince Naruhito could take on the duties of the Emperor –  whilst the Emperor will continue to be the Emperor until the end of his life.

In response to the message, the Japanese Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, stated that the Government would “look seriously” into what the Emperor has said.

At the end of the message, Emperor Akihito expressed his hopes that the Imperial Family can continue being with the people, working together for the future of the country and he concluded with the words: “I sincerely hope for your understanding.”

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Tagged Emperor Akihito of Japan.

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