King Charles III’s forthcoming coronation is set to be a brief affair, drawing inspiration from an unexpected source: the coronation of King Letsie III of Lesotho in 1997.
In his book, “Charles III, New King, New Court,” Robert Hardman reveals the intriguing connection between the two
ceremonies and how the Prince of Wales, now King Charles III, took note of the efficiency displayed during the Lesotho event.
A Royal Benchmark: Lesotho’s Four-Hour Coronation
The Lesotho coronation, held at the national football stadium in Maseru, attracted a crowd of 25,000 and featured a unique blend of regality and modernity.
King Letsie III’s ceremony, lasting more than four hours in the scorching heat, showcased a spectacle where even advertising hoardings found their place (“Lewis Furniture Wishes to Congratulate His Majesty on His Coronation”).
Prince Charles, attending the event in a white Naval uniform, delivered a speech on behalf of Queen Elizabeth II, embracing the grandeur of the moment.
The Prince’s Pledge: “I’ll Keep It Short”
Despite the impressive theatrics, the extended duration raised concerns, with the crowd experiencing dehydration and sunstroke.
Prince Charles, mindful of the situation, even expressed empathy for the British press corps.
When a reporter expressed hope for a swifter British Coronation in the future, Prince Charles assured, “Don’t worry.
I’ll keep it short.” Little did he know that a quarter of a century later, as King Charles III, he would stay true to his word, opting for a brief and efficient coronation ceremony, a departure from traditional royal standards.