King Harald of Norway has said there is ”nothing to fear” about
the future of his country’s monarchy as it goes through of its
toughest patches.
Speaking to reporters after a difficult few days, Norway’s king
also confirmed that his daughter in law, Crown Princess
Mette-Marit, was seriously ill.
The remarks came as he addressed health concerns about another
member of his family. His wife, Queen Sonja, was taken to hospital
on May 27 with heart issues with the royal court saying she would
need several days of treatment.
However, on May 28, Harald V revealed that his wife of 57 years
was on her way back home. He told reporters that ”her form is much
better” and added that her spirits had lifted, noting ”it wasn’t
good…she was a little depressed” as she couldn’t carry out her
engagements.
It was his remarks about Crown Princess Mette-Marit that caused
most alarm though. A few days ago, Crown Prince Haakon said his
wife was very unwell and needed oxygen most days. The Crown
Princess has pulmonary fibrosis, diagnosed in 2018, and her health
has deteriorated in recent months. On Norway’s National Day,
earlier in May, she was seen with an oxyygen tube.
Now, as May comes to an end, King Harald revealed her condition
was worsening. He said ”we have heard doctors say this is going to
happen but we thought…it would happen in a while, not now. But now,
it is suddenly very real. She is seriously ill. There is no doubt
about it, unfortunately.”
And King Harald was asked about the future of the monarchy –
first in line is Crown Prince Haakon, 52, followed by his eldest
child, 22 year old Princess Ingrid Alexandra who is currently
studying in Australia.
He said that ”with my successor, and also with Princess Ingrid
Alexandra, you have nothing to fear.”
Norway’s monarchy has been hugely popular under King Harald who,
at one point, had approval ratings of over 90%. But a series of
problems, including the mention of Crown Princess Mette-Marit in
the Epstein files, have led to dissatisfaction. An interview that
she gave about her friendship with Jeffrey Epstein wasn’t received
well.
Addressing her links to the convicted sex offender, King Harald
said ”I found out about it when you found out about it. And I don’t
know anything more than you know.”
He also defended his daughter in law, saying ”we must remember
that the Crown Princess has not done anything illegal….and she
broke this connection. Unlike some others in Norway, she broke the
connection very early so I think we should give her credit for
that.”
Inevitably, King Harald was asked about whether the Norwegian
monarchy would survive. In response to a question about whether the
crown will be abolished one day, he said ”then I’m not here
anymore, that’s for sure”.
