Spanish ex-monarch Juan Carlos I retires from public life
Spain’s emeritus King Juan Carlos and emeritus Queen Sofia leave the Notre Dame cathedral after attending at the funeral of the Grand Duke Jean of Luxembourg, in Luxembourg. Image: AP/Francisco Seco
MADRID — Spain’s former monarch, Juan Carlos I, said he wants to completely retire from public life on June 2, Sunday, five years after abdicating the throne.
The King emeritus addressed his son King Felipe VI, in a letter published Monday, May 27, on the Spanish royals’ website stating, “I think the moment has arrived to turn a page over in my life and complete my retirement from public life.”
Juan Carlos added that he began thinking about fully retiring when he turned 80 last year and was honored in the Spanish parliament. The event coincided with the anniversary of the country’s 1978 constitution which marked Spain’s transition from dictatorship to democratic rule.
Despite health problems, Juan Carlos maintained a busy public agenda since stepping down. HM/JB
RELATED STORIES:
Article continues after this advertisementKing of Spain visits Iraq, first in 40 years — diplomat
Article continues after this advertisementHeir to Spanish throne,13, speaks publicly for first time
Spanish monarch nears decision on formation of new gov’t
