The institutional crisis shaking the Principality has finally erupted. The Royal House of Monaco has confirmed that Princess Caroline could be in a position to claim a more active role in the Grimaldi dynasty. They have done so at a time when Albert of Monaco's image has been severely damaged by a scandal of unprecedented proportions in the country.
In recent days, Prince Albert's name has been linked to a complex web of accusations. The so-called "Monacogate," named as such by the European press, has gained momentum following statements from Claude Palmero, his former financial manager. Palmero has presented evidence and testimonies that directly implicate the sovereign in opaque and questionable financial maneuvers.
The Royal House has made an unusual decision: not to silence the controversy. They have chosen to confirm that Caroline has expressed her willingness to take on responsibilities that, according to her, would be hers by birth. Although there has been no talk of abdication, it has been implied that her figure is gaining political and symbolic weight within the family.
Princess Caroline claims her place in the Royal House of Monaco amid institutional turmoil
This institutional shift comes in a particularly sensitive context. The French and Monegasque press have revealed internal documents pointing to a lack of financial transparency on the part of Prince Albert. Among the accusations are unjustified payments, properties registered in the names of third parties, and a disproportionate lifestyle.
Claude Palmero, in his testimonies, has stated that Albert himself asked him to avoid any written trace of his financial movements. He has also revealed that some properties, such as an apartment in London for the mother of one of his children, were intentionally hidden. These claims have caused deep unease in public opinion and within the Grimaldi family.
Caroline's response was swift. According to sources close to her, the aristocrat has considered that the situation "justifies a review of the family leadership."
For many, this veiled statement is the first step toward a historic change in the leadership of the principality. The fact that Caroline is the eldest strengthens her arguments, especially now that her brother's image is so damaged.
Stir in the Royal House of Monaco: Princess Caroline could gain power as her brother's image wanes
For years, Caroline has kept a diplomatic and discreet profile. However, she has intervened at official events when Albert or Charlene's absence has required it. Now, her figure is emerging as a symbol of stability amid the chaos surrounding the Royal House, which many interpret as something calculated.
Charlene of Monaco's circle has not escaped the controversy either. Reports published by Le Monde have indicated that her expenses far exceed the allocated allowance, which has added more fuel to the fire. The accounts also point to questionable allocations for the prince's older children, as well as possible real estate investments driven by Stéphanie of Monaco.
The seriousness of the case has even forced external financial advisors to intervene. One of these teams has warned of a possible gap in the traceability of the prince's assets in the event of his death. This warning has been interpreted as another sign of financial disorder in the Royal House, a scenario that favors Caroline's figure.
Experts say that we are witnessing a turning point in Monaco's modern history. Never before has a financial scandal shaken the institution so much, nor has a woman been so close to changing the balance of power. For this reason, the Royal House's statement has made it clear that Caroline will take on a more active role in the Principality.