Some key questions and answers about the abdication and ascension:___Q. With Japan’s Imperial House Law lacking a provision on abdication by a reigning emperor and virtually allowing only posthumous succession, the government enacted a one-time law to allow Akihito’s abdication. Aiko, 17, is barred from inheriting under Japan’s male-only succession law, and the line goes to Naruhito’s brother, Fumihito, better known by his childhood title, Akishino. After abdication, Akihito and Michiko will move to a temporary royal residence before eventually switching places with Naruhito after refurbishments at each place. This year, Malaysia’s King Sultan Muhammad V abruptly stepped down after just two years on the throne, the first abdication in the country’s history.

Source: Washington Post April 30, 2019 02:36 UTC