Prince Hisahito, 3rd in line to the throne, turns 10

Something is amiss in a democracy if 1) there is still an imperial system; 2) only males are considered; and 3) there is a ranking system based on age.

Congratulations to Prince Hisahito on his birthday. He looks like he is growing into a fine boy and he seems to have two well-adjusted older sisters as well.

With all due respect to the Imperial Family, one wonders just how much pressure was brought to bear on his parents to produce a male offspring in order to preclude changing the law to allow for female Emperors. I don't begrudge Prince Hisahito anything, just making an observation.

The government are kicking the can down the road to let someone else deal with the succession issue and future abdication. Making this a one off policy saves politicians from being placed in a "difficult" situation and being forces to come up with a definitive process for both issues.

That kid is 10 already?!