Danish Elderly Minister Mette Kierkgaard on Tuesday resigned from the government. The Prime Minister will recommend Henrik Frandsen, member of the Folketing, to His Majesty the King as the new elderly minister.
The formal presentation and handover will take place on February 3, 2026 at Amalienborg.
The formal presentation of Henrik Frandsen to His Majesty the King was scheduled for 11:30 am, a step that affirms the appointment. It followed by a brief media engagement described as "et kort doorstep på Amalienborg Slotsplads," providing an opportunity for the press to address the new minister.
Meanwhile, the outgoing minister, Mette Kierkgaard, was officially received in her farewell audience at Amalienborg at 12:30 pm on the same day.
The transition will continue with the ministerial handover in the Ældreministeriet, marking the official transfer of responsibilities from Kierkgaard to Frandsen.
This orderly handover reaffirms the Danish government’s commitment to maintaining continuity and stability within key ministries.
An updated order of precedence within the Danish Council of State ("En opdateret statsrådsrækkefølge kan findes her") has been made available to reflect the change in ministerial ranks.
During the transition period, all communications directed to the Elderly Minister are to be conducted through the Ældreministeriet, as noted, "Henvendelse til ældreministeren skal ske via Ældreministeriet."
For further inquiries or official information, the Prime Minister’s press office can be contacted at "Statsministeriets pressetelefon +45 29 10 88 25."
The Ældreministeriet plays a crucial role in shaping policies for Denmark’s aging population, making this leadership change particularly notable.
Mette Kierkgaard’s resignation raises questions about the direction the ministry will take under Henrik Frandsen’s leadership, though the government’s swift response signals confidence in a smooth transition.
The presentation before the King and the ministerial handover ceremonies are vital formalities in Denmark’s constitutional monarchy, emphasizing respect for tradition alongside modern governance.
These events also provide an official platform to welcome Henrik Frandsen into the government’s executive circle.
As Denmark faces ongoing challenges related to elderly care, health services, and social support systems, the ministry’s leadership remains a key factor in policy development and implementation.
Stakeholders and citizens alike will be watching closely how the new minister approaches these issues.
In conclusion, the Danish government’s announcement on February 3, 2026 marks a clear transition in the Ældreministeriet with Mette Kierkgaard stepping down and Henrik Frandsen poised to take over.
The formal presentation and handover scheduled at Amalienborg reinforce the importance of orderly governance and continuity.
Further updates on Henrik Frandsen’s policy priorities and initiatives are expected as he assumes office in the coming weeks, with the government committed to keeping the public informed.
