Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit placed on lung transplant waiting list, sparking prisoner release plea

Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway has been added to the waiting list for a lung transplant after her health deteriorated due to a rare form of lung fibrosis. The announcement prompted a wave of reactions from political leaders and royal families. Swedish royal spokesperson Margareta Thorgren said the Swedish court has been in direct contact with the Norwegian royal household, while Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre expressed support for the princess and her family. Opposition figures, including Conservative leader Ine Eriksen Søreide and Centre Party representative Grunde Almeland, also voiced sympathy, noting the impact on the nation.

In a related development, lawyer Petar Sekulić petitioned Norwegian prosecutors to release 29‑year‑old inmate Marius Borg Høiby, who has been in pre‑trial detention since early February. Sekulić argues that the severity of the princess’s condition warrants special consideration for Høiby’s release, and has submitted a written request to the prosecution. The court has previously upheld his detention citing a risk of re‑offending, and a verdict is due on 15 June.

The princess’s health status and the associated legal request have drawn public attention across Norway and neighboring Sweden, highlighting the intertwining of royal health matters with broader societal concerns.