How can the political neutrality of these messages be guaranteed if the government decides on the wording as a last authority?
This was one of the questions Kartheiser posed to the government, and more specifically the Prime Minister. PM Xavier Bettel's answer was clear.
The Grand Duke's Christmas Eve message is prepared by the head of state himself, together with the the responsible services within the Grand Ducal court. The finished message is then transmitted to the Prime Minister, who can then react to it and authorise the speech.
In his answer, the Prime Minister reminded Parliament that the constitution states that head of state is "inviolable" and as such is not only exempt from criminal liability but also has to act in a strictly apolitical manner.
Article 45 of the constitution also states that the Grand Duke's acts are the government's responsibility. This means that every public event, including the Christmas Eve and the National Day speech, are also the government's responsibility.
Xavier Bettel also pointed out in his answer to Kartheiser that the government does not touch on the essence of the Grand Duke's speeches but merely makes suggestions, which are purely editorial rather than content-related.
Bettel added that the Grand Duke had not put the legitimacy of his function as head of state in question with any of his statements, for example his Christmas Eve speech. The constitution defines the Grand Duke's role as the symbol for unity in the country, which is exactly what he delivered.
The PM again made it clear that the Grand Duke's speeches are written by the head of state and not the government. While the Grand Duke's acts, including his statements, fall under the responsibility of the government, they don't necessarily have to mirror the government's position.
For an example of Grand Duke Henri's speeches, click on the article in the links box below:
