King Charles has reportedly been pressured to address ex-Prince Andrew’s arrest on television. A source claimed that a written statement might not be enough for maintaining the nation’s confidence in the monarchy. According to several constitutional experts, the 77-year-old king should reach out to the public through an audio-video platform. Previously, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on February 19 on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
King Charles may address nation on ex-Prince Andrew’s arrest via televised broadcast, per source
King Charles was quick enough to release a statement after his brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was arrested last week. In it, he expressed his “deepest concern” over the situation, but also emphasized cooperating with the investigation. Although he addressed the incident on the same day, sources claimed that it might not be enough for the public.
“A written statement satisfies constitutional convention, but the national mood is febrile. In moments like this, formality alone may not be enough,” a royal historian told RadarOnline. Furthermore, the monarch has reportedly been pushed to address his brother’s arrest via a televised broadcast.
According to a former palace aide, Charles should allegedly not delay speaking to the public. If he avoided “direct engagement,” more “doubt and speculation” would reportedly settle in people’s minds. “A broadcast would not interfere with due process. It would signal that the sovereign recognizes the gravity of the moment and the anxiety it is generating. Silence, however well-intentioned, can begin to look like distance,” they explained.
Moreover, a constitutional expert also suggested a similar move to the outlet. As per them, the delay might affect “public trust.” However, if Charles were to address the issue on television, it would reportedly carry “symbolic force.”
Meanwhile, a senior royal watcher believed that controversies like Andrew’s arrest should be dealt with “emotional intelligence” and “constitutional discipline.” The individual said, “The country is unsettled. The expectation to hear from its head of state is growing louder by the hour.”
Originally reported by Suushmmita Sen on Reality Tea.
