The following are some questions and answers regarding the issues pertaining to Japanese Emperor Akihito's abdication on April 30, 2019, which was agreed upon by a special panel meeting Friday.Q: Why is the emperor abdicating?A: In August 2016, the emperor, who will turn 84 on Dec. 23, signaled his desire to abdicate in a rare video message, citing his advanced age and weakening health. As the existing law at the time had no provision on abdication, the government enacted in June a one-off law to allow him to step down.Q: Who will succeed the emperor after he abdicates?A: The emperor's elde…READ FULL ARTICLE
