Full Breakdown
King Haakon VIII Swears Constitutional Oath Amid Public Mourning and Royal Health Concerns
9/1/2026, 8:58:32 PM
The Oath Ceremony
The 53-year-old monarch entered the 169-seat chamber in an open-top black 1966 Lincoln Continental, accompanied by Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra, Prince Sverre Magnus, and Queen Sonja. The 17-minute ceremony underscored Norway’s status as a constitutional monarchy, with the king’s oath symbolising the Crown’s subordination to elected institutions.
Timeline of Succession Events
- August 28 – King Harald V died at age 89, ending a 35-year reign.
- September 1 – Haakon VIII swore the constitutional oath before the Storting.
- September 8 – King Harald’s coffin will lie in state at the palace chapel for public viewing.
- September 9 – State funeral scheduled in Oslo, with foreign heads of state invited.
Public Sentiment and Poll Data
A poll commissioned by public broadcaster NRK after the king’s death found 72 % of Norwegians support the monarchy, up from 64 % in a May survey and 54 % earlier in the year. The same poll recorded a decline in support for the royal family during earlier scandals, but the surge follows Harald’s passing.
Official Statements & Responses
The royal palace issued a statement explaining that Queen Mette-Marit could not attend the oath ceremony because of complications after her June 17 lung transplant; she remained under observation for the day.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Norwegian parliament, I promise and swear to rule the Kingdom of Norway in accordance with its constitution and laws, so help me God the Almighty and All-knowing.” — King Haakon — King Haakon, King Haakon
- “Compassion was the core of his message in good times and tough times,” — Masud Gharahkhani, to storting president — Masud Gharahkhani, Parliament President
- “The queen has had complications on several occasions since the operation, including today,” — Are Holm — Are Holm, Pulmonologist, Oslo University Hospital
- “It is not unusual with complications after a lung transplant. The queen has had complications on some occasions with the operation, including today,” — Are Holm — Are Holm, Pulmonologist, Oslo University Hospital
What’s Next
The coffin of King Harald V will remain on public display until September 8, after which the funeral will be held on September 9 at Oslo Cathedral, followed by interment in the royal mausoleum at Akershus Fortress. No coronation is planned, as Norway abolished the practice in 1908, though the new king may choose a consecration ceremony at Trondheim’s Nidaros Cathedral.
