Japan's Emperor Akihito hints at wish to abdicate
- 8 August 2016
- From the section Asia
Japan's Emperor Akihito has said he fears deteriorating health and age mean he is finding it difficult to continue in his role.
The emperor's comments came in his second-ever televised address to the public.
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is expected to issue a statement shortly.
There is no legal provision for abdication in Japanese law. A change in law would be required to allow the emperor to stand down.
