Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been informed they are not to be treated as working royals following their return to the United Kingdom, according to an edict from King Charles III.
The instruction, relayed by the Lord Chamberlain to over 100 senior stakeholders across the country, clarifies that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex hold no official standing as royal representatives.
The communication also serves as a reminder that the couple's HRH titles remain inactive. This development occurred during the Sussexes' first two weeks back in Britain since their departure from royal duties.
Uganda Withdraws from Invictus Games
In the wake of the King's edict, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni, announced his country's withdrawal from the Invictus Games. Kainerugaba stated his support for King Charles over what he termed "this ‘Meghan-Harry nonsense’."
Prince Harry, who founded the Invictus Games, has been blamed by some for this development. Uganda had announced its participation in the Games only two months prior. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have previously been critical of the British Royal Family regarding issues of race and public attitudes.
Sussexes' Public Standing
The King's letter stipulated that Harry and Meghan should not be offered any semblance of royal reception, such as red carpet treatment, curtseys, or official engagements. The directive was intended to make clear their status as private citizens.
However, the couple reportedly expressed displeasure at being defined as private figures and indicated that the King should have consulted them before issuing the statement. They apparently wish to be recognized as public figures, a distinction the source notes could be worth millions of pounds annually.
Royal Family's Stance
The Royal Family's approach, characterized by resilience and a firm hand, has been a hallmark of its longevity. The recent edict reflects a long-standing reluctance to grant royal prerogative easily. The source compares the situation to a "monarchy – not a mid-market company flogging flower sprinkles and overpriced sparkling wine to gullible shoppers."
Prince Harry's public appearances since his return have included signing an autograph wall at a London podcast studio. The article notes that this is only the second week of their return and characterizes the events surrounding it as "pure, throbbing farce."