Norway's new king remembers 'my dear father' in first speech

Norway's new King Haakon VIII paid tribute to his late father, King Harald V, in his inaugural speech to the nation. In an emotional address from the royal palace, Haakon remembered his father, who had passed away at 89 after battling a rare blood condition.

Haakon noted that his father was seen as a moderniser and "people's king" during his 35-year reign. Now, the 53-year-old king acknowledged that a major task lay ahead. He emphasised the need for national unity, stating that Norway's royal family believed in a society built on law and justice, where everyone is of equal value.

The new king recalled his father's role as a loving husband to Queen Sonja and a warm, funny grandfather to his six grandchildren. Haakon also mentioned that Harald's passing coincided with their 58th wedding anniversary. He expressed deep emotion, saying he choked back tears when he noted the anniversary.

Haakon highlighted the powerful experience of seeing thousands of Norwegians gather outside the royal palace, laying flowers and tributes. He expressed that while the nation was in mourning, it was comforting to see so many grieving together. The monarch will swear an oath of allegiance in parliament on Tuesday and participate in a stripped-down consecration service, a change from Norway's traditional coronation ceremonies.

Norway's royal family has faced health challenges and scandals in recent months. Haakon's wife, Queen Mette-Marit, faced scrutiny over her friendship with Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender, for which she later apologised. She also received a lung transplant due to pulmonary fibrosis. Additionally, Haakon's son from a previous relationship, Marius Borg Høiby, was convicted of rape and other offenses.

Haakon stressed the importance of standing together as a family during difficult times, acknowledging the turbulence surrounding his family. While Harald remained popular until his death, a recent poll indicated that support for the monarchy had dropped from 72% to 54%. However, Norwegian royal experts believe Haakon, despite the challenges, is respected, hard-working, and capable of moving forward.