Copenhagen, Aug 29. (dpa/GNA) – Norwegian King Harald V, has died at the age of 89, the royal house announced on Friday, making his son Haakon the new king of Norway.
Europe’s oldest reigning monarch passed away peacefully at 6:35 am (0435 GMT) on Friday, at Oslo University Hospital, the royal house said. Harald had been in hospital since the beginning of last week, receiving treatment for haemolytic anaemia, which had led to fluid retention in his body. He subsequently contracted a bacterial infection of the bloodstream.
The Norwegian king had long been in poor health. Since 2024, he had been permanently dependent on a pacemaker. He had also frequently suffered from respiratory illnesses.
In February, the monarch had been taken to hospital with an infection while on holiday in Tenerife with his wife, Queen Sonja. Walking had also become difficult for him in recent times. Despite this, Harald had ruled out stepping down from the throne early, in favour of Haakon. He carried out his royal duties until the very end.
Norwegians valued King Harald V for his reserved manner, and for his ability to take a clear stand when it mattered.
His speeches were often marked by compassion and tact. He comforted Norwegians after the terrorist attacks in Oslo and on the island of Utøya in 2011.
Following the refugee crisis, he positioned himself in 2016 as a measured voice for diversity and tolerance. The monarch was also popular for his dry humour.
He was an enthusiastic sailor and winter sports enthusiast. Harald ascended the throne in 1991, following the death of his father, Olav V.
He married his great love Sonja in 1968, even though his father had long struggled with his son’s relationship with a commoner.
Harald was more tolerant with his own children. His son Crown Prince Haakon also married an ordinary Norwegian woman, Mette-Marit. His daughter Märtha Louise is now married for the second time to self-proclaimed shaman Durek Verrett.
Without Harald, the future direction of the Norwegian monarchy is uncertain. While the king enjoyed enormous support in his country, scandals have recently shaken confidence in the crown prince’s family considerably.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit has faced criticism over her close friendship with convicted US sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein.
Following the king’s death, constitutional lawyers said the 53-year-old would not automatically become queen, the decision on her role rests with the new King Haakon.
Mette-Marit’s eldest son, Marius Borg Høiby, from a previous relationship, was sentenced in June to four years in prison under Norwegian law, among other things for two counts of rape.
The verdict has not yet become final. Many Norwegians have since been uncertain whether Mette-Marit truly has what it takes to be queen.
GNA