Japan warms up to emperor’s likely abdication
TOKYO—Japanese will tune in to Emperor Akihito’s rare video message today following reports that he would abdicate in the next few years, which initially came as shock but was welcomed by many as a deserved rest for the 82-yearold beloved monarch.
In the pre-recorded message, Akihito will talk about his duties as a “symbol emperor” as stipulated by the Constitution, palace officials said.
He will most likely avoid the explicit expression of abdication, which would involve political and legal procedures that he is not allowed to discuss.
Akihito still works, though his aides have shifted some of his du- ties to Crown Prince Naruhito — the elder of his two sons and most likely successor.
Yet, Akihito has referred to his old age in recent years, admitting to making small mistakes at ceremonies.
During the Aug. 15, 2015, anniversary of the end of World War II, Akihito started reading a statement when he was supposed to observe a moment of silence.
After the initial surprise, the public warmly welcomed the reported abdication plan, saying the hard-working emperor deserves to enjoy his long-overdue retirement.
Lifting the abdication ban, a practice inherited from the pre- war Constitution, would also bring the imperial life closer to the public.
“Changing that will reflect the reality of Japanese society first of all, the way that almost all people here feel about working and life and career building,” said Robert Campbell, a University of Tokyo professor and expert on Japanese history and culture.
According to a nationwide telephone survey by Kyodo News agency this month, nearly 90 percent of the respondents said Akihito is given too much work, while more than 85 percent said an abdication should be legalized as an option to Akihito and his successors. (AP)