Prince Harry and Meghan Markle blamed for damaging the Royal Family’s relationship with the Commonwealth
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Speculation surrounds Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s upcoming visit to Nigeria, with concerns that it could potentially strain the relationship between the Royal Family and the Commonwealth. This trip by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to the African nation is scheduled for later this month and is raising eyebrows given their complex history with the Commonwealth.
The couple plans to engage deeply with the Nigerian culture during their stay, participating in various cultural events, meeting with service members, and holding discussions concerning the Invictus Games—an international sporting event founded by Prince Harry for wounded, injured, or sick armed services personnel and their associated veterans. These activities are aimed at strengthening ties and fostering mutual understanding.
Speaking to The Daily Mail, Phil said: “It’s ironic that the late Queen wanted Harry and Meghan to very much be her ambassadors throughout the Commonwealth and spread goodwill among its fifty or so nations, but they didn’t want to do it as royals. “Now they are happy to pick and choose invitations they receive from these countries.” He also suggested the Sussexes are trying “to set up a rival court, their own royal roadshow.”
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau from Nigeria has publicly shared his enthusiasm about the visit, noting that it is an honor and a delight to host the couple. His positive outlook reflects the anticipation and welcoming spirit expected from the host country. Despite the positive local reception, there are overarching concerns about the broader implications of their visit.
Phil Dampier, a noted royal author, has voiced apprehensions regarding the potential negative impact of the couple’s visit on the ties between the Royal Family and the Commonwealth nations. Dampier pointed out that the visit carries a certain irony, given Harry and Meghan’s previous criticisms of the Commonwealth. Their outspoken views and the subsequent decision to step down from royal duties have already created ripples within the royal establishment and among Commonwealth nations.
The expert claimed they are using “their royal connections” for unofficial visits that could “blunder into a diplomatic incident” if they do something wrong. Royal author Tom Bower agreed and suggested Harry and Meghan are “playing the royal card”.
He told the publication: “Once again, the ‘privacy-seeking’ couple is exploiting the family they have outrageously denounced to pump up their publicity. Undoubtedly, the trip will be financed by the Nigerian government. Their motives, as members of the Commonwealth, remain obscure.”
A statement published on the Invictus Games’ social media accounts read: “The Invictus Games Foundation will celebrate 10 years of changing lives and saving lives with a ‘Service of Thanksgiving’ at St Paul’s Cathedral on May 8th. “We will be joined by our Patron, Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, actor Damian Lewis, and members of the worldwide Invictus Community to mark the occasion.”
The timing of their trip is also notable as it follows Prince Harry’s return to the UK. He is scheduled to return to London by May 8 to partake in the 10th-anniversary celebrations of the Invictus Games. A special service at St Paul’s Cathedral will mark this milestone, symbolizing Harry’s continued commitment to the veterans’ community through the Games, which have been a significant part of his charitable endeavors.
