King Haakon VIII of Norway praised his late father, King Harald V, for representing the nation with pride and joy while promising to give everything for the country during his first televised address as monarch, according to the Norwegian public broadcaster NRK. King Harald died on Friday at age 89 after reigning for 35 years, leaving behind a legacy of tolerance and public connection that drew tens of thousands of mourners to the royal palace in Oslo, as reported by The Associated Press.
King Haakon VIII Delivers First Address Following Father’s Death
Wearing a black suit, white shirt, and black tie, King Haakon VIII delivered a live televised speech from the palace a day after his father’s passing, according to AP and NRK. The new monarch sat beside a wooden desk featuring a portrait of the late king and two white candles, expressing gratitude for the public support. According to NRK, the king stated, “We are in mourning. At the same time, it brings us comfort and strength to know that so many are mourning with us.” AP reported that the 53-year-old monarch fought back tears while recalling his father’s laughter and good-natured approach to people, noting that Saturday would have been the 58th wedding anniversary of his parents, King Harald and Queen Sonja.
Public Mourning and Memorial Services Across Norway
Tens of thousands of people gathered outside the royal palace in Oslo to leave flowers, condolence cards, and candles, creating what King Haakon called a powerful and moving experience, according to AP. The government declared a national mourning period lasting until after the funeral, whose date remains unannounced, according to NRK. Across the country, churches and city halls opened so citizens could light candles and sign condolence books, with the Church of Norway scheduling nationwide memorial services, as reported by both outlets. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere, speaking to Reuters, said that King Haakon shares his father’s unique ability to create an atmosphere of togetherness.
Constitutional Foundations and Upcoming Royal Oath
King Haakon adopted the historical royal motto “All for Norway” and emphasized the nation’s democratic foundations in his address, according to AP. “We believe in our popular government – and in democracy. We believe in a society built on law and justice – and where everyone is of equal value,” Haakon said, according to NRK. The new king is scheduled to take an oath to defend Norway’s constitution and laws before the legislature on Tuesday, upholding a constitutional monarchy whose modern roots date back to 1905, as reported by AP. Queen Mette-Marit assumes the title of queen, while Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra becomes crown princess and heir to the throne.
Did you know? Norway’s monarchy traces its origins back to King Harald Fairhair in the ninth century, though modern parliamentary rule means the royal role is largely symbolic, as noted by AP.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did King Harald V pass away?
King Harald V died on Friday at the age of 89 after serving as monarch for 35 years, according to NRK and AP.
What is the royal motto adopted by King Haakon VIII?
King Haakon adopted the motto “All for Norway,” which dates back to his great-grandfather, according to AP.
When will King Haakon VIII take his constitutional oath?
The new king is due to take an oath to defend Norway’s constitution and laws before the legislature on Tuesday, according to NRK.
Who is the heir to the Norwegian throne?
Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra is the oldest child of King Haakon and Queen Mette-Marit, making her crown princess and heir to the throne, as reported by AP.
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