EDITORIAL: Long live the King
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The days of mourning for Queen Elizabeth II in Canada, the United Kingdom and across the world will continue for at least another week. Then there will be a funeral for the Queen and a coronation for our new monarch, King Charles III.
But the man who we knew for decades as Prince Charles has already made his first address as King of England and, of course, as King of Canada. On Friday, Charles took to the airwaves to deliver his first public address as King.
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“As The Queen herself did with such unswerving devotion, I too now solemnly pledge myself, throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the Constitutional principles at the heart of our nation,” said the King.
“And wherever you may live in the United Kingdom, or in the Realms and territories across the world, and whatever may be your background or beliefs, I shall endeavour to serve you with loyalty, respect and love, as I have throughout my life.”
It was no doubt one of the most difficult speeches Charles has ever delivered. He was tasked with both saying farewell to his mother and introducing himself as the new monarch, all in the span of less than 10 minutes. He fulfilled his duty well — coming across as deeply genuine and committed.
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It may take some time for Canadians to warm up to the new monarch.
Public opinion polls have previously indicated that a significant percentage of Canadians would be happy to depart the Commonwealth following the passing of Queen Elizabeth. Yet actual political appetite to bring about that changes does not seem to exist and no major party is pushing for it.
That is good news. The Crown has served as an enduring symbol of stability in our country. While this transition period may give rise to ample discussion and debate, we are well-served by continuing this relationship.
It was only a few months ago, in May, that Princes Charles and Camilla conducted a three-day royal tour across Canada.
These days, when everything seems to change so fast, it is important to have meaningful institutions that remain as constants.
Long live the King.
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