Prince Harry reportedly attributes Uganda's withdrawal from the 2027 Invictus Games to a recent letter from his father, King Charles III, that defined his and Meghan Markle's royal status. A source close to the Sussexes told ITV News that the decision by Uganda was "clearly a consequence" of the guidance issued by the Lord Chamberlain regarding the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
"Intended or unintended, this is clearly a consequence of the Lord Chamberlain’s guidance regarding the Duke and Duchess of Sussex that was rushed out without consultation on Monday," the source stated, referring to a note released by the King's office. The source added, "Sadly, the only people who will suffer are the Invictus Games competitors."
The letter, disseminated on Monday, clarified that Prince Harry, 41, and Meghan Markle, 45, are considered "private citizens with commercial and charitable interests," despite their recent relocation back to the United Kingdom. Reports indicate the note was sent to the media without the couple's prior consultation.
One day after the King's letter was issued, Uganda's Chief of Defense Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, announced the African nation's withdrawal from the upcoming Invictus Games, scheduled to be held in Birmingham, England. Kainerugaba stated on X that Uganda would not participate in anything lacking King Charles' approval, expressing reverence for the British monarch.
"In order not to be construed as being opposed to His Majesty King Charles III of the United Kingdom, whom we deeply revere, Uganda hereby withdraws from the Invictus games," Kainerugaba wrote. He further elaborated to The Times UK that he had to "quash" potential support for the "Harry-Meghan nonsense" within Uganda's Ministry of Defense, stating, "I support the monarch. Period."
Prince Harry founded the Invictus Games in 2014. The international sporting event is designed for wounded, injured, and sick military service personnel. Uganda had been welcomed into the Invictus community during a ceremony in London in July, attended by Harry and Ugandan officials.
While Harry and Markle have not publicly commented on King Charles' letter, sources suggest the couple is "frustrated" with its wording. The Telegraph reports that the Sussexes prefer to be identified as "public figures" rather than "private citizens with commercial and charitable interests."
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle recently returned to the UK with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, six years after stepping back from their royal duties and leaving their home in Montecito, California. Harry was seen in London on Monday, marking his first public appearance since the move, while Markle was observed having tea in the Cotswolds, where the couple is reportedly house hunting.