Early Friday morning, King Harald V passed away at Rikshospitalet at 06:35 on August 28, according to an announcement from the Royal Palace. The transition of the regnant monarch’s role occurred automatically at that exact second, making Crown Prince Haakon the new King of Norway under the principle of constitutional succession. As the nation enters a period of mourning, preparations are underway for King Haakon VIII to take the constitutional oath on Tuesday at 13:00 at the Storting, according to Nettavisen.
Following the monarch’s passing, the government is summoned to an extraordinary Council of State at the Palace, where the new sovereign formally announces his predecessor’s death, his chosen regent name, and his royal motto. Historical precedent indicates that the public response mirrors past transitions; historian and royal expert Trond Norén Isaksen noted to Nettavisen that when King Olav died in 1991, Norway essentially paused as crowds gathered at Slottsplassen, an outcome expected during this transition as well.
Guard Preparations and Uniform Logistics in Husebyleiren
At Husebyleiren, members of Hans Majestet Kongens Garde and the Army’s School for Recruit and Trades Training are preparing for ceremonial duties amid warm late-summer temperatures. Conscript soldier Lise Simmer described the upcoming assignment as stressful, noting to Nettavisen on Monday afternoon that troops have endured long days while wearing heavy wool uniforms in the August heat. Units have received instructions to hydrate extensively beforehand because opportunities to drink water will not be available during the procession, which includes lining the route from the Royal Palace to the Storting and standing as honor guards.
Logistical adjustments across the armed forces will take considerable time. Garde commander Emil Ottosen confirmed to Nettavisen that it will take many months before the new king’s cypher and name appear on military uniforms.
Did You Know? According to the Norwegian Constitution § 9, the reigning monarch must take an oral oath before the Storting swearing to govern the Kingdom of Norway in accordance with its constitution and laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did King Harald V pass away?
King Harald V passed away quietly at Rikshospitalet on Friday, August 28, at 06:35, according to the Royal Palace.
When and where will King Haakon VIII take the constitutional oath?
King Haakon VIII will take the oath in accordance with the Constitution at the Storting on Tuesday at 13:00, with honor guards and formation lines provided by Hans Majestet Kongens Garde and the Army’s School for Recruit and Trades Training.
How long will it take to update military uniforms with the new king’s details?
Garde commander Emil Ottosen confirmed to Nettavisen that it will take many months before the new king is represented on uniform insignia.
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