Henri takes a big step back.
Yesterday the annual national holiday was planned in Luxembourg. A festive occasion, where the Grand Ducal family naturally shows itself at its best. Yet the day full of festivities had a bittersweet edge: Grand Duke Henri announced that he was taking steps towards his abdication.
Step down
A ‘shock’, a ‘surprise’, an ‘abrupt step back’ – it is clear that royalty watchers around the world have been shocked by Grand Duke Henri’s announcement.
During his speech during the National Day celebration, the Grand Duke stated: “Within this context, I would like to inform you, together with the Grand Duchess, Prince Guillaume and Princess Stéphanie, that I have decided to appoint Prince Guillaume as Lieutenant Representative in October.”
“I wish him, with all love and trust, much happiness,” the Grand Duke added.
New role
Now this announcement emphatically does not mean that Henri will abdicate the throne in October. However, the appointment of his son means that the duke is taking a few major steps back. In this way, Guillaume’s upcoming appointment can be compared to a regency. For example, the crown prince will take over his father’s place, such as swearing in ministers and representing Luxembourg on visits abroad.
This step does mean that the way is in fact cleared for an abdication in the short term. For example, Henri himself was the lieutenant representative for his father, Grand Duke Jean, from March 3, 1998 until his accession to the throne on October 7, 2000.
If, like Queen Margrethe, he wanted to complete the year, Henri could possibly choose to schedule Guillaume’s appointment for October 7.
Harbinger
The announcement cannot come as a complete surprise. Earlier this year, the Luxembourg Grand Duke raised eyebrows when he hinted at an impending resignation during a visit to Belgium. Henri shared in conversation with La Libre: “There are plans [voor een aftreden, red.]. There will come a day when it has to be done, and I plan to retire at some point. That much is clear.”
When La Libre asked the Grand Duke if he had a precise date in mind for his resignation, Henri responded playfully: “Yes, but I’m not going to tell you!” Well, we didn’t have to wait very long for the big news…
Source: Blauw Bloed, Luxembourg Times | Image: NL Image
