Japanese Emperor Akihito 'plans to abdicate

Japan's Emperor Akihito has announced his intention to abdicate in the coming years. 

The 82-year-old, who has had health problems in recent years, reportedly does not wish to remain emperor if he has to reduce his official duties.  

He has been head of state for 27 years and his abdication would be an unprecedented move in modern Japan.  

His eldest son, Crown Prince Naruhito, 56, is next in line to succeed him to the Chrysanthemum Throne.  

Emperor Akihito succeeded his father, Hirohito, in 1989.


SOURCE: BBC news