Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's highly anticipated tour of Colombia has arrived with much fanfare, yet, similar to their previous outings, it has been met with a rather chilly reception.
The grand entrance of the royal couple has done little to endear them to the local population. In fact, many Colombians have expressed their displeasure with audible boos, signaling that their visit might not be the local sensation they had hoped for. The backlash has been intensified by a flood of criticism on social media, where thousands have taken to X to lambaste Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez for her controversial decision to invite the couple.
It appears that the Sussexes' presence is being viewed as an unwelcome distraction from the more pressing issues facing Colombia. Royal expert Robert Jobson succinctly captured the local sentiment, noting that Colombians are perplexed by the visit. "Are they here to help?" Jobson quoted, adding that the arrival of Harry and Meghan didn't just make people squint from the Colombian sun but from the blinding glare of their celebrity. According to Jobson, the royal couple may be more of a dazzling distraction meant to divert attention from the country's real issues rather than a genuine aid mission. Furthermore, the ever-popular question of who is paying for their security, flights, and luxurious accommodations looms large.
In a surprising turn of events, Vice President Márquez defended her invitation, revealing that she was deeply moved by the Sussexes' story as depicted in their Netflix series. "Meghan is a woman who deserves to come to this country and share her story," Márquez explained, somewhat defensively. It seems that the allure of a Netflix series was enough to override practical considerations, including the safety and suitability of hosting the couple in a country with a notorious reputation for drug-related violence and kidnapping. Speaking of security, the Sussexes' visit has prompted an impressive display of protective measures.
The streets have been lined with police cars and armed soldiers, creating a fortified perimeter around the Duke and Duchess. Local residents have been forced to navigate roadblocks and endure lengthy detours just to reach their homes. This heightened security is partly due to threats against Vice President Márquez, further complicating the visit. Adding to the absurdity, Harry and Meghan have generously shared their detailed itinerary with the public. Critics argue that this move not only undermines their own security but also highlights a troubling trend of prioritizing publicity over practical safety measures. It seems the Sussexes' penchant for self-promotion knows no bounds, even when it contradicts their professed concerns about security.
During their Colombian escapade, Harry and Meghan are scheduled to meet with various organizations and youth groups, continue their work with the Archewell Foundation, and participate in an insight session at a local school. These engagements appear meticulously planned to polish their public image, though some critics dismiss them as mere window dressing for a broader agenda. The itinerary also includes a summit with experts and activists aimed at fostering positive online environments. While this is a noble cause, it has been met with skepticism. Critics argue that their commitment to digital civility might be less about genuine change and more about silencing dissent. The Sussexes' actions often seem at odds with their public statements, fueling ongoing questions about their true motivations.
