Kathmandu— Norwegians are paying their respects to King Harald V, who died Friday in Oslo University Hospital after battling haemolytic anaemia, marking the end of a 35-year reign and the beginning of a new era under his son, King Haakon VIII. Thousands have gathered at the Royal Palace in Oslo to lay flowers and mourn the loss of a unifying leader known for embracing inclusivity and modernizing the monarchy. The transition was immediate; Haakon became king upon his father’s death and is scheduled to take the oath before parliament on Tuesday.

A Reign Remembered

King Harald, Europe's oldest monarch, was widely regarded as a reformer who championed tolerance and openness throughout his reign. Many Norwegians remember him as a unifying figure and a beloved leader. Line Stousland, 49, described the late king to AFP news agency as “a king of the people, like a grandfather to the whole nation.” Flags are flying at half-mast across Norway, and portraits of King Harald in gala uniform adorn public spaces.

Transition of Power

The transition to King Haakon VIII began immediately following his father’s death. The new monarch is set to formally swear an oath before parliament on Tuesday, pledging to uphold Norway’s constitution and laws. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store acknowledged the shift in a speech delivered shortly after meeting with the new king, stating, “An era has ended. A new one begins. The king is dead. Long live the king.” He further praised King Harald for his love of the Norwegian people, his warmth, and unwavering faith in them.

Challenges Facing the New Reign

While inheriting a monarchy lauded for its modernity and modesty, King Haakon VIII also faces challenges stemming from recent scandals involving members of the royal family and associated figures. Earlier this year, connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein emerged involving two high-profile Norwegian politicians and the crown princess. Additionally, Marius Borg Hoiby, the new king’s stepson, received a four-year prison sentence in June on charges including rape and domestic violence. A separate police investigation was launched into former Prime Minister Thorbjorn Jagland on suspicion of corruption.

A date for King Harald V's funeral has not yet been set, but preparations are underway to honor his legacy as Norwegians look towards the future under their new monarch.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.