“I ask the Spaniards to believe in me.” It is the central passage of the first speech of the Princess of Asturias, Leonor of Bourbon, in the Royal Palace after her oath to the constitution. “I am committed to respecting and defending the Charter and the democratic principles enshrined in it,” the heir to the throne added.
Shortly afterwards, her father, Felipe VI, spoke: “Dear Leonor, you will not be alone on your journey. You will find the support you need in your family, as well as in that of the Spanish people, who can recognize your commitment.” They show encouragement and affection. Your oath – concluded the King – is the solemn expression of the commitment of those who embody the continuity of our parliamentary monarchy with our democratic principles and constitutional values.
At 11 a.m., Leonor of Bourbon swore allegiance to the constitution in court and became heir to the throne – a historic day for the young Spanish democracy.
The entire country is now in the grip of “Leonormania”: the central streets of Madrid are full of national flags, all the street lamps are decorated with photos of the Princess of Asturias. A girl who, especially on behalf of her mother, Queen Letizia, a former public television journalist, interprets her role in a much more modern and open way to society compared to the traditions of the past. Just think of the family’s decision to let her spend her final year at a Welsh school.
Video Spain, Princess Leonor swears by the constitution
Many enthusiastic Spaniards came behind the barriers early in the morning to see the royal family up close. There was also a significant deployment of over 900 police forces across the region to ensure security for the most solemn act in the Spanish Parliament. A special session that is also of great political importance today: according to the Spanish constitution, the royal family is the symbol of the unity of the state.
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