As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex embark on a controversial tour of Colombia, tensions with the Royal family continue to escalate

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, are facing criticism for their upcoming quasi-royal tour of Colombia, which has stirred discontent among Royal Family courtiers. The tour, described by some as unofficial, has fueled claims that the couple is continuing to project themselves as royal figures despite their ongoing feud with the monarchy.

A former courtier expressed disapproval, stating, “I’m afraid it shows the utter contempt they have for the King and for very long-established ways of doing things.” Traditionally, royal tours serve diplomatic purposes, aiming to foster international relations and reinforce Britain’s presence on the global stage. The insider’s comments suggest that Meghan and Harry’s visit to Colombia, a nation grappling with significant violence and political instability, is perceived as inappropriate and misaligned with royal protocol.

“The tour may well have the noblest intentions, but it is clearly not being carried out on behalf of Britain, and yet they still basically portray themselves as British royals,” the source added. This criticism highlights the tension between the Sussexes’ efforts to maintain a public image tied to their royal status and the Royal Family’s desire to distance itself from their activities.

In response to the controversy, sources close to Harry have suggested that his family’s need for automatic police protection in the UK remains unresolved. Harry has reportedly expressed frustration over the lack of action from King Charles, accusing him of failing to reinstate the security measures. However, the Palace has countered that security decisions are made by the Government, not the King, and it would be improper for him to intervene directly.

“The King himself would not be involved in this process,” a royal source asserted. “Security provision is well-established and decided by the Government.” This response underscores the Palace’s stance on maintaining procedural boundaries and avoiding personal entanglements in security matters.

Amid these tensions, Meghan and Harry’s planned visit to Colombia has raised eyebrows. The choice of destination, given Colombia’s high murder rate, has been questioned, with critics arguing that it does not align with the traditional purpose of royal tours. Nevertheless, Francia Marquez, Colombia’s Vice President, personally invited the Sussexes, adding a layer of diplomatic intrigue to the visit.

A Sussex source has countered these criticisms, suggesting that the King could intervene in security matters if he chose to do so. The source remarked, “If the King wanted, he could do this for his son.” This assertion reflects ongoing frustrations within the Sussex camp regarding their treatment and security arrangements.

As Meghan and Harry prepare for their trip, they face scrutiny over their public portrayal and the broader implications of their actions. The Royal Family’s reluctance to engage with the Sussexes further complicates their efforts to maintain a high-profile presence and navigate their strained relationship with the monarchy.

Analysis:

Political:

The ongoing dispute between Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, and the Royal Family highlights the complexities of royal diplomacy and public relations. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s quasi-royal tour of Colombia, despite being unofficial, raises questions about the role of royal representation and the political implications of their actions. The criticism from courtiers about the tour’s appropriateness reflects broader concerns about the Royal Family’s image and its international engagements. The Palace’s insistence on separating security decisions from personal influence underscores the political need for clear boundaries and the avoidance of perceived favouritism.

Social:

The Sussexes’ tour and the ensuing controversy reflect societal debates about celebrity, royal status, and the role of public figures in shaping international perceptions. Meghan and Harry’s continued portrayal as royals despite their departure from official duties speaks to broader themes of identity and public image. Their actions challenge traditional norms of royal conduct and raise questions about the expectations placed on public figures to conform to established protocols. The social impact of their tour highlights ongoing discussions about the nature of fame and the responsibilities of high-profile individuals.

Racial:

While the issue does not directly address racial themes, it intersects with broader discussions about diversity and representation within the context of the Royal Family. Meghan Markle’s presence in high-profile international engagements, such as the Colombia tour, underscores the role of race and identity in public perceptions of royalty and celebrity. The criticisms and scrutiny faced by the Sussexes may reflect underlying tensions related to race, representation, and the evolving role of diverse figures within traditional institutions.

Gender:

The dynamics between Meghan Markle and the Royal Family also touch on gender issues, particularly the scrutiny faced by women in high-profile roles. Meghan’s actions and public portrayal are subject to intense media and institutional scrutiny, reflecting broader gender norms and expectations. Her role in the Sussexes’ tour and the associated criticism highlight how gender influences public perceptions and the challenges faced by women navigating traditional and non-traditional roles within royal and celebrity contexts.

Economic:

The economic implications of Meghan and Harry’s quasi-royal tour include potential impacts on their public image and commercial ventures. The controversy surrounding their portrayal as royals may influence their brand value and marketability. The tour’s reception and the associated criticism could affect their financial opportunities and public engagements. The Sussexes’ ability to leverage their public profile for economic gain remains intertwined with their complex relationship with the Royal Family and their ongoing efforts to maintain relevance in the media landscape.