Japan's Princess Kiko has given birth to a baby boy. The new arrival, who weighed in at 5lbs 10oz early on Wednesday morning, represents a potential solution to the country's long-running succession crisis.
Her third child was delivered by caesarean section two weeks before her due date, but the Imperial Household has given assurances that both mother and baby are doing fine. News of their well-being will come as a relief to Japan's royal fans, as the 39-year-old princess was admitted to hospital on August 16 after suffering complications with her pregnancy.
Kiko had experienced a partial placenta previa, meaning the placenta had dropped too low in the uterus. Doctors said the decision to admit her was strictly precautionary, however.
The birth of Emperor Akihito's fourth grandchild also eases pressure on Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako to produce a male heir. Political moves were already underway to change the country's constitution, which currently prohibits females from ascending to the throne, as the couple's daughter, Princess Aiko, is their only child.
Under the current system the as-yet-unnamed baby is third in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne. Should Naruhito die without fathering a male heir, his brother Akishino will take his place, before being succeeded by his own son.
The debate over whether Japan should change its accession rules looks likely to continue, though. "I am very glad the prince was born," said Chief Cabinet Secretary Shinzo Abe, who is expected to become the next prime minister. "I truly feel relieved and happy - it's a refreshing feeling that reminds us of a clear autumn sky. Reforming the Imperial Household law is an important issue that concerns the stability of the Imperial Family. We must carry on the debate in a careful and calm manner."
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
