Japan’s Emperor Akihito has made a rare television address to the nation, expressing his fears for his health and his ability to carry on as emperor, and hinting that he wanted to stand down. Once considered divine, Japan’s emperor is defined in the constitution as a symbol of the “unity of the people” and has no political power. Related: Japan's Emperor Akihito not preparing to abdicate, palace insistsBefore the announcement, it was thought unlikely he would state outright that he wanted to step down, which could have been interpreted as interfering in politics. “Considering the emperor’s duties, as well as his age and the burden [of the job], we have to firmly look at what we can do,” he said. Akihito ascended the throne after the death of his father, Hirohito, in whose name Japan fought the war.

Source: The Guardian August 08, 2016 06:29 UTC