In brief
Uganda’s chief of defence, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has withdrawn his country from the Invictus Games just two months after pledging participation. The move comes amid concerns about the UK monarchy’s stance on Prince Harry and Meghan. The general stated the decision was to avoid being seen as opposed to King Charles III, though no formal letter has been issued. The withdrawal raises questions about how Uganda balances its diplomatic ties with the UK and how the Games are perceived by royal supporters.
Uganda has withdrawn from the Invictus Games, a sporting event for wounded military veterans run by the Duke of Sussex, only two months after it announced its participation.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s chief of defence and son of the president, announced the decision in a post on X. He said the withdrawal was “in order not to be construed as being opposed to His Majesty King Charles III.”
The Ugandan government confirmed that the general’s decision reflected that the UPDF would only take part in events approved by the king. “If it changes, he will let the world know,” a spokesman added.
The announcement follows a letter this week on the king’s behalf stating that Prince Harry and Meghan are no longer working royals. A Times report cited the general’s concern about the “Harry‑Meghan nonsense” as part of his reasoning.
The general’s post included a hastily written note about honouring the king and the invitation to participate only as long as it had the king’s approval.
The Invictus Games organisers said they had not received official confirmation of a withdrawal and were seeking clarification from Ugandan contacts. They also noted that the game will run next year in Birmingham with Uganda originally announced as the 26th participating country.
The move underscores the delicate interplay between Uganda’s diplomatic posture toward the UK and royal figures’ public engagements.
