Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly "massively relieved" after King Charles stepped in to help resolve a situation that threatened Uganda's participation in the Invictus Games. The development came shortly after the Palace issued a letter making clear that Harry and Meghan are "no longer working members of the royal family" and should instead be regarded as "private citizens with commercial and charitable interests".
Uganda's Withdrawal and Reversal
According to a report, Uganda subsequently announced it was withdrawing from the Invictus Games, citing the ongoing controversy surrounding Harry and Meghan. A source close to the Sussexes told ITV News that, "intended or unintended", the withdrawal was a "consequence" of the guidance issued by the Lord Chamberlain.
However, the situation quickly changed after Uganda's military leaders announced they would return to the Games following a phone call with the King's private secretary, Sir Clive Alderton. Sir Clive was reportedly told that the King had "no problem" with Uganda taking part.
Significance for the Duke of Sussex
The intervention was described as significant for Harry because the Invictus Games was founded by the Duke of Sussex and remains one of his key charitable causes. One insider said Charles was prepared to look at the situation "from a very fair perspective" and "do what he feels is the right thing".
"That's why he intervened and made that phone call to clear things up and ensure Uganda reversed their decision," the source said. The insider claimed Harry's circle were particularly relieved by the King's intervention.
"They're all massively relieved that Charles did step up to sort things out but it's absolutely been a reminder of how much power the palace does hold," the source said.
Wider Tensions Between Sussexes and Palace
The episode came amid wider tensions between Harry, Meghan and the Palace following the couple's return to the UK. According to the report, Charles was unhappy that Harry had given the Palace little notice of his plans to return to Britain, while the Sussexes have also been seeking a review of Harry's security arrangements.
An insider claimed there had been a "steady stream of complaints" and "demands" from the Sussex camp since their return. The report also claimed the King was frustrated by the amount of information emerging through media reports about Harry and Meghan's activities.
"It's pretty vexing to The King that so many details are being leaked out," the source said, claiming the Sussexes were attempting to influence the public narrative through selected stories. The insider added that Palace officials had made clear that "all protocol will stay in place and is to be followed".
Despite the tensions, the report suggested Charles does not want Harry to permanently leave Britain. A source claimed the King wants Harry and his children around and hopes to spend more time with his grandchildren.
"To be clear, Charles is not looking to force Harry out, quite the opposite in fact," the insider said. "He actually does want him and his children around." However, the source claimed Charles would expect Harry to accept royal protocol if he is to maintain a relationship with the family while spending more time in the UK.
