Japan’s Emperor Akihito Abdicates, Naruhito To Ascend

Tokyo: Japan’s Emperor Akihito formally abdicated on Tuesday during a historic ceremony in Tokyo, becoming the country’s first monarch to stand down in two centuries. In his last public address as Emperor from the Matsu-no-Ma state room of the Imperial Palace, Akihito thanked the Japanese people for their support as his 30-year reign came to an end and said he hoped his successor’s time on the throne would be “stable and fruitful”.

Akihito’s eldest son, Crown Prince Naruhito, will ascend the throne on Wednesday and then a new era called “Reiwa” – meaning order and harmony – will begin in Japan’s unique calendar. Naruhito will become Japan’s 126th Emperor. “Since ascending the throne 30 years ago, I have performed my duties as the Emperor with a deep sense of trust and respect for the people and I consider myself most fortunate to have been able to do so,” 85-year-old Akihito said in a speech broadcast live on TV.

“I sincerely wish, together with the Empress (Michiko), that the Reiwa era, which begins tomorrow (Wednesday), will be a stable and fruitful one and I pray, with all my heart, for peace and happiness for all the people in Japan and around the world,” the 125th emperor said. Akihito was given permission to abdicate after saying he felt unable to fulfil his role because of his declining health. (IANS)

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