Norway’s Crown Prince’s Son to Stand Trial
The eldest son of Norway’s crown prince is set to face trial on Tuesday over several serious charges, including rape, a situation that has caused significant embarrassment for the royal family.
Marius Borg Hojbi was indicted in August following a lengthy investigation and is now pursuing a lawsuit in Oslo District Court.
The indictment comprises 38 counts, covering accusations such as rape, intimate abuse of an ex-partner, assault on another partner, and the illegal transportation of 7.7 pounds of marijuana.
Additional allegations include making death threats and traffic violations.
Prosecutors indicate that if convicted, the 29-year-old could face as much as 10 years in prison. The trial is expected to continue until mid-March.
Hojbi, the son of Crown Prince Mette-Marit from a previous relationship, is also the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, the heir apparent. He does not carry a royal title nor perform official duties and has faced intense scrutiny since 2024, having been arrested multiple times on various charges. He remains free as he awaits trial.
The indictment focuses on four alleged rapes that reportedly took place between 2018 and November 2024, along with accusations of assault and intimidation against a former partner from summer 2022 to fall 2023. There are also two counts of assault on another partner and violating a restraining order.
Defense attorney Petar Sekulić stated that his client denies all allegations of sexual abuse and most of the violence-related charges. He mentioned that Hojbi intends to provide the court with his detailed account of events.
Crown Prince Haakon recently commented on the situation, emphasizing that neither he nor Mette-Marit would attend the trial. He also noted that Hojbi is not considered a member of the royal family and possesses the same rights and responsibilities as any other citizen. He expressed confidence that the trial would be conducted fairly and appropriately.
While the royal family generally enjoys popularity in Norway, Hojbi’s situation has somewhat tarnished their image.
“The past year and a half has been quite shocking for Norwegians, as we have a deep fondness for our royal family,” remarked Tove Talesen, a royal expert for the Nettavisen newspaper.
She added that people respect the royal family and view King Harald as a grandfather figure.
Though the current sentiment still leans towards supporting King Harald and Queen Sonja, Talesen acknowledges varying opinions on different family members. “For the most part, I think many still hold sympathy for the Crown Prince and Crown Princess.”
However, Hojbi’s case isn’t the only issue casting a shadow over the royal family. Princess Martha Louise’s business ventures have often drawn criticism, especially after her marriage to Durek Berrett, an American claiming to be a shaman, in 2024, around the same time Hojbi’s troubles came to light.
