European monarch announces shock abdication plans that no one saw coming

Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg has surprised the public by announcing that he will hand over the throne to his son after 24 years on the throne.

The monarch, 69, announced his 'abdication' on National Day, an annual event that brings together the members of the Grand Ducal family, members of government and members of parliament to celebrate the Grand Duke's official birthday.

In a shock statement, Henri revealed that his eldest son, Prince Guillaume, 42, will assume his position on the throne in the autumn.

He said: "I would like to inform you that I have decided to appoint Prince Guillaume as Lieutenant-Representative in October."

https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/1914551/grand-duke-luxembourg-abdicate-prince-guillaume