RTL Today - 'New chapter for the monarchy,' PM Luc Frieden: Royal succession: Grand Duke announces first steps

The Grand Duke begins preparations for his succession.

This October, the Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume alongside his wife Hereditary Grand Duchess Stéphanie, will be taking over the lieutenancy of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

'With all my love and trust, I wish him with all my heart a very happy hand,' the Grand Duke shared, visibly emotional.

Watch reporting in Luxembourgish:

The announcement came as a surprise to everyone including the press as there was no mention of passing on the lieutenancy in the brief previously shared by the royal court. The news was kept a secret until Sunday morning. At the end of his speech, the Grand Duke shared that he wanted to announce his decision jointly with his wife, his son Prince Guillaume and Princess Stéphanie.

Listen to the reporting in Luxembourgish:

Zivil Zeremonie Philharmonie / Reportage: Annick Goerens

Prince Guillaume's title change to Lieutenant-Representative in October paves the way for a future royal succession. However, the official royal succession can still take another three years. Next year, the royal couple will be celebrating their silver jubilee, marking 25 years of service.

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PM Luc Frieden reacts: 'This is the start of the next chapter for our monarchy'

Prime Minister Luc Frieden explains that the Hereditary Grand Duke will be taking over certain duties from his father, but Grand Duke Henri will continue to hold onto his title as Grand Duke and therefore is not abdicating now. Prince Guillaume, as heir, has been prepared for this moment for a long time, and "now he will have the power to fulfill certain duties on his father's behalf."

Watch the reporting in Luxembourgish:

Reaktioun vum Premier Luc Frieden

"Et ass den Ufank vun engem nächste Kapitel vun eiser Monarchie"

Although the general public was surprised, the Prime Minister was privy to this news in advance. "I have been aware of the Grand Duke's intentions for a while and I think he made an excellent decision to share the news on National Day, as the Grand Duke is a symbol of our nation."

The PM was not able to provide any further details on when the Hereditary Grand Duke will officially take over all of his father's duties and his title. But any such steps will certainly be discussed with the Prime Minister in advance.

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