Japan grants half a million pardons to mark enthronement of emperor Naruhito
JAPAN - Japan has pardoned more than half a million people found guilty of petty crimes such as traffic violations to mark the formal ascension of Naruhito to the Chrysanthemum throne. Naruhito proclaimed himself Japan’s new emperor and vowed to “stand with the people” after performing a series of ancient rituals on Tuesday that culminated in his appearance on the imperial throne alongside his wife, Empress Masako. The 59-year-old, who ascended the throne in May following the abdication of his father, Akihito, marked his official enthronement in front of around 2,000 guests, including heads of state and other royals from more than 180 countries.
“I hereby declare my enthronement at home and abroad,” said Naruhito. Dressed in a dark orange robe whose design dates back 1,000 years, Japan’s 126th emperor paid tribute to 85-year-old Akihito’s dedication to public service and said he would continue his father’s work. Naruhito vowed to act according to the postwar constitution, which regards the reigning emperor as a “symbol of the sate and of the unity of the people, while always wishing for the happiness of the people and the peace of the world, turning my thoughts to the people and standing by them”.
He added: “I sincerely hope that our country, through our people’s wisdom and unceasing efforts, achieves further development and contributes to the friendship and peace of the international community and the welfare and prosperity of humankind.” Facing Naruhito from a position below the imperial throne, the prime minister, Shinzo Abe, offered his congratulations. “We will do our utmost to create a peaceful, bright future full of hope for Japan,” Abe said, before leading the guests in three cheers of “Banzai” (Long live the emperor).