Romanian lawmakers have voted not to allow former King Michael to address Parliament on his 90th birthday, saying he is not the head of state.

Parliament speaker Roberta Anastase said Monday Michael should not address the Parliament on Oct. 25 because he is not a head of state. Critics say the decision is politically motivated.

Princess Margaret, who is Michael’s eldest daughter, told Antena 3 television station late Monday: “It’s a shame for the nation” that an opportunity has been missed.

Michael is one of the few surviving heads of state from World War II. He was forced to abdicate by the Soviet-backed Communist government in 1947.