December 25. Christmas Day. This isn’t the only special day within Kozan, it’s also an extraordinary day for Kozan’s Prime Minister, as this generally marks the start of a new four-year term for the Prime Minister of Kozan, even if they are continuing for a second term. The ceremony typically takes place at noon Eastern Kozan Standard Time on December 25. The formal inauguration of a monarch of Kozan would be better recognized as the coronation of a Kozanese monarch and does not take place on Christmas day, but around 70 – 90 days after the previous monarch’s death or abdication.
Typically, the ceremony involves recitation of an oath. Even though the recitation is not mandatory by the Kozanese constitution, almost all monarchs and prime ministers recite them. The inauguration of the Prime Minister is typically held in Kozankyo at the Kozankyo Imperial Palace where the former monarch of Kozan resided, while the coronation of the Kozanese monarchy is held in Horudika Canal.
Over the years, both the monarch and prime minister have held various traditions from the oath-taking ceremony to events that are spread all day that include parades and multiple social gatherings. Ever since the introduction of television in Kozan, all major commercial broadcast networks in Kozan has carried the ceremony live on television, as well as livestreaming it on the internet since the 1990s.
Elements of the ceremony
The inauguration or coronation procedure is governed by tradition. Traditionally, the prime minister or monarch approaches the Kozanese throne. At noon Eastern Kozan Standard Time for a prime minister inauguration or Western Kozan Standard Time for a coronation, the prime minister or monarch takes the oath, generally administered by the monarch during a prime minister inauguration or the priest of the Hakurei Shrine during a coronation.
Oath of allegiance
The Kozanese Constitution does not specify any specific words to be spoken, although some variants of the most commonly used one exist. Their oath has to be recited bilingually in both English and Japanese. The current form used by the monarch during a coronation is:
“I, King/Queen (monarch’s name) of Kozan, solemnly swear that I will assume the throne and defend Kozan from all known enemies both domestic and foreign, and bear true allegiance that cannot be broken in half. As I take this obligation freely, I prophesize that my descendants will take the throne once I pass on.”
In a prime minister inauguration:
“I, (prime minister’s full name), solemnly swear that I will assume the role as the Prime Minister of Kozan, and to the best of my ability, defend Kozan from all known enemies both domestic and foreign, and bear true allegiance that cannot be broken in half. As I take this obligation freely, I will discharge the duties in the office I am about to enter.”
During a coronation, the Priest of the Hakurei Shrine then proceeds to address the crown to the monarch by placing it on their head. After the administering, they must then proceed to recite this oath:
“I, King/Queen (monarch’s name) of Kozan, solemnly swear that I will faithfully assume the throne as the Monarch of Kozan, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of Kozan. So help me God.”
The Mini-Hakkero has been a significant influence during these oaths. As they recite the oath, the monarch places their left hand on the sides of the Mini-Hakkero facing up while they raise their right hand.
After the recitation, the Kozanese Royal Marine Band proceeds to perform four ruffles and flourishes, followed by them playing “Hail to the Chief.” Meanwhile at the same time, a 21-gun salute from the Kozanese Royal Defense Force is fired while the cannon bearers shout “banzai” (the phrase literally means “long live 10,000 years”).
Inaugural/Coronation address
Newly crowned monarchs or sworn-in prime ministers generally give a speech after reciting the oath. They generally use the address to present their vision for Kozan as well as the goals for Kozan they wish to pursue during their reign or term.
Parade
Following the address, it has become customary for the monarch or prime minister to hold a parade in Kozankyo or Horudika Canal. Both military personnel and civilians from all over the country participate in the event.
Inaugural/Coronation ball
Generally held on the night of an inauguration or coronation, it has been a tradition to hold a formal social gathering to commemorate the inauguration or coronation. The balls are invitation-only and are generally attended by those who are issued pre-paid tickets. The monarch and prime minister, as well as their spouses, are mandated to make an appearance. Catered food, beverages, and live entertainment are performed at the event.
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