The Norwegian Royal House is going through one of its most delicate stages in recent years. Marius Borg Høiby, the eldest son of Princess Mette-Marit, has generated a storm of controversies that have not only affected his personal reputation, but also stability and image of the Norwegian monarchy. Accused of assault, possession of drugs and weapons, the 27-year-old has put in check to his family, with his younger sister, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, being the main bastion of hope for the future of the Crown.
Marius, who has lived since childhood within the Royal Family, has not been able to adapt to the strict public life that comes with being a member of royalty. His repeated legal problems and his circle of ill-advised friends have made his figure the subject of scrutiny, and even more so when it emerged that both Mette-Marit and Prince Haakon were aware of these friendships that were hanging around the Royal Palace.
To protect their daughter from this influence, Haakon and Mette-Marit have decided prolong military training of Princess Ingrid. Originally planned to last 12 months, training at Skjold’s Battalion has been extendedthree more monthswith the intention of keeping Ingrid away from her brother and the scandals that surround him. It is no secret that both brothers maintain a very close relationshipwhich has increased the concern of the kings.
In the midst of this crisis, Ingrid emerges as the key piece to save the image of the Royal Family. The princess, who will soon turn 21, has demonstrated a strong character and an innate ability to connect with the Norwegian people. Given King Harald’s advanced age and health problems, the Norwegian Parliament has begun studying a proposal to amend the Constitution, which would allow Ingrid to assume the position of regent when necessary, a role that has historically been reserved for the heir. straight.
Despite her youth, Ingrid is gaining ground in the public sphere. Some Danish media have pointed her out as the ‘savior’ of the Norwegian monarchy, highlighting that its fresh and modern presence is exactly what the institution needs in these times of turbulence. Her military training, added to her academic preparation and her affable character, position her as a future queen who can reconnect the monarchy with the people.
The silence that Haakon has maintained regarding his stepson’s problems has begun to raise suspicions in some sectors of the press and public opinion. Did he know more than he has revealed? Meanwhile, the clock continues to tick, and every day it seems clearer that Princess Ingrid will have to assume responsibilities sooner than expected, both in her family and in the nation.
In a scenario where the popularity of the monarchy has begun to falter, the figure of Ingrid stands as the light at the end of the tunnel. Will he be able to restore the people’s trust in the Crown? Meanwhile, Marius continues to be caught in the eye of the storm, and rumors about the favorable treatment he has received from the authorities only aggravate the situation.