The traditional emperor system needs to adjust to fit in with our changing society. Therefore, the abdication of Emperor Akihito will become a good precedent for the future. Judging from his age and health, abdication is desirable for the Emperor, and also fit for our modern society.
In his August 2016 announcement that he wished to abdicate, the Emperor expressed his concerns about his health and ability to fulfil his duties as the symbol of the state and people. If he were an 85-year-old ordinary citizen with some health problems, it would be very natural to retire.
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