Japan's Crown Prince Akishino, the younger brother of Emperor Naruhito, on Thursday said he has "mixed feelings" about the government's revision to the Imperial House Law that insists only men can become emperor. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
Akishino made the remarks at a news conference ahead of a trip to Paraguay later this month to mark the 90th anniversary of Japanese emigration to the South American country. He said he believes there is no difference between men and women in serving the roles of the imperial family to respond to social needs.
The comments by Akishino, the next in line for the throne, come just weeks after a historic revision to the Imperial House Law by the conservative government of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi that insists only paternal-lineage men can become emperor.
The law has been criticized as anachronistic and sexist, and the revision sparked outrage and concern that the measure could doom the already shrinking imperial family. Critics also say the government's insistence on the male-only succession is an imposition of an inhumane system on the royals without taking into consideration their burden and feelings.
As an imperial family member who is not supposed to make political statements, Akishino was nuanced in his comments. When asked about the government's decision, he said: "I have mixed feelings about it, and it's rather strange if I don't." He added that it "is a difficult question, and the reality is that I can't talk about it."
"The society needs to keep making progress, and I believe it is important for people with different views to keep thinking what's best," Akishino said.
Naruhito is 24.