Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume sworn in as Lieutenant-Representative

Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume of Luxembourg has been sworn in as Lieutenant-Representative. This is seen as a first step in the abdication process.

The ceremony at the Grand Ducal Palace in Luxembourg began with the signing of the Grand Ducal decree appointing Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume as Lieutenant-Representative of the Grand Duke. Following this, Guillaume took his oath before the Chamber of Deputies, saying, “I swear to observe the Constitution and the laws and to faithfully fulfil my constitutional duties.”

Following the ceremony, he made a speech in which he said, “I am aware that today also marks a new stage in my personal life, for my wife and our children. We are approaching it together and with confidence. I am looking forward to now standing alongside the Grand Duke, as Lieutenant Representative, in the service of the country and its people and working in the best interests of Luxembourg.”

The day ended with a reception at the Palace.

© Maison du Grand-Duc / Kary Barthelmey / Pancake ! Photographie

It is not yet clear when the Grand Duke will abdicate, although he has said that the date is already set. The Grand Duke himself served as regent for his father for two years before officially taking over the reins in 2000.