Charles III was officially proclaimed monarch of the United Kingdom on Saturday, opening a new era in the history of a country that is preparing to bid farewell to Elizabeth II, its guide and symbol of stability for seven decades.
In a solemn ceremony televised from Saint James’s Palace in London, in the presence of his heir William, Queen Consort Camilla, Prime Minister Liz Truss and all his living predecessors, the Ascension Council signed and announced the proclamation of the new king.
“Prince Carlos Felipe Arturo Jorge now becomes, due to the death of our sovereign lady of happy memory, our King Carlos III. God save the king!” The council proclaimed before the monarch himself was called to the room. .
“My mother’s reign was unmatched for its duration, dedication and devotion (…) I am deeply aware of this great heritage and the duties and heavy responsibilities of sovereignty, which is now transmitted to me,” said the new sovereign.
Following a carefully crafted protocol long overdue, the late queen’s 73-year-old son slowly settles into the head of state and into the hearts of the British people.
His proclamation was then read to the public from a balcony of the palace, to the sound of royal trumpeters and in the presence of the royal guard in their ostentatious black bear hats, as well as a large group of onlookers. #AFP
