TOKYO: Japanese Defense Minister KONO Taro on Tuesday warned of the risks for keeping Japan’s current Imperial succession system allowing only male descendants in the family’s paternal line to ascend the throne. 

Speaking at a press conference on the same day, Kono said it would be “extremely risky” for the current Imperial Family to maintain the male-line succession system.

He indicated that national debate should be initiated immediately on possible ways to ensure stable Imperial succession, including allowing female Emperors or Emperors from the maternal bloodline and restoring the Imperial Family status to those who left the family soon after the end of World War II.

“Maintaining the male-line Imperial succession system is the most desirable option,” Kono said.

However, Kono added, that the country should also consider an option of allowing female members to remain in the Imperial Family after marriage as heads of family branches and have their children ascend the throne, or an option of either reinstating former Imperial Family male members or have them succeed the throne through adoption.

“The Emperor’s status is based on the consensus of the people,” Kono said, adding that the succession issue needs to be discussed by the people as soon as possible.

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako have one child, 18-year-old Princess Aiko. Prince Hisahito, 13-year-old nephew of the Emperor, is the only grandson of Emperor Emeritus Akihito, the father of the Emperor.

JIJI Press