Charles III does not even want to hear about abdication: the King's strategy to silence rumors

The rumble of abdication is there. When the Queen isabel II celebrated its Platinum Jubilee in 2022, popularity polls recognized the likeability and social appeal of Guillermo and placed the royal ahead of his father, Charles of England. Kate, much loved, is a pillar in this positive, modern and new-age image of the Windsors. The surprise of the then Prince of Cambridge to his father sneaked into the debate tables. The death of the monarch, in September of that year, automatically made Charles King and the surprise disappeared from the headlines. But not forever. Now it has returned in the form of a rumor.

The King, 75 years old, is receiving cancer treatment, the type of which has not been revealed, and his eldest son has taken the reins. Due to his status as his heir in the first line of succession, this is what corresponds to him. Faced with rumors of a resignation, Carlos decided to come forward. He did so through a statement on his official networks in which he showed his gratitude for the love received: “As all those who have been affected by cancer will know, kind words are the greatest comfort and encouragement.“. And he stressed: “Sharing my diagnosis has helped to promote public understanding and shed light on the work of all the organizations supporting cancer patients and their families, both in the UK and around the world.“.

Just a few hours later, last Sunday the 11th, the monarch appeared in Sandringham, on his way to the church of Saint Mary Magdalene. He was walking with his wife, Camilla. With that photograph of the King greeting the media, he silenced rumors. But he was at his Sandringham retreat, where he rests during his treatment and where he has set up his headquarters. Well, on the 13th the sovereign made himself seen again. This time, in London. The message is clear: he is active and working. The cameras captured him through the window of his car.

To stay up to date, Carlos relies on the famous red boxes, where he receives documentation and stamps his signature, just as his mother did. In this task, he has the support of his private secretary, diplomat Ian Patrick.

For his part, Guillermo, 41, faces a stage of greater prominence and responsibility in the House. It is what has been called the soft regency. The heir can endorse laws and represent his or her parent in in-person events. This is provided by the law approved in Parliament on State Councilors. Its weight on the agenda will be greater. Just like Camilla, whose representation is also greater.