Oslo [Norway], September 1: The Norwegian royal family accompanied the coffin of the late Harald V through the Royal Palace in a solemn procession on Monday, the new Queen Mette-Marit walking hand in hand behind the coffin with Harald's widow, Queen Sonja.
King Haakon VIII, Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Haakon's sister Martha Louise walked alongside the coffin together with the other grandchildren, moving slowly as it was carried to the palace chapel.
Among them was also Mette-Marit's convicted son, Marius Borg Høiby. Despite being held in pretrial detention with an electronic ankle monitor, he was allowed to take part in the procession after approval from prosecutors.
In June, 29-year-old Høiby was sentenced to four years in prison on various counts, including two for rape. The verdict is subject to appeal and is not final. He was also permitted to see his step-grandfather in hospital last week before he died.
Palace staff, many of whom had been close to Harald, joined the procession, broadcaster NRK reported. They lined the route as the procession passed. Leading the procession was the head of the royal household, carrying the royal crown on a cushion.
In the palace chapel, the coffin was placed on a raised platform, a catafalque. A private memorial service for Harald's family, members of his household and his aides-de-camp was held.
The royal couple later appeared together with Martha Louise and Queen Sonja on the palace square. They greeted the cheering crowd and viewed the sea of flowers.
Over the coming days, Norwegians will be able to pay their respects to Harald at designated times.
Harald died on Friday at the age of 89. His funeral will take place on September 9. Høiby will be allowed to attend the funeral.
Source: Qatar Tribune
