Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's highly anticipated tour of Colombia has begun, but it hasn't exactly been a warm welcome.
Unlike their previous engagements, this visit has been met with a chilly reception, as the royal couple's grand entrance failed to win over the locals. In fact, some Colombians have made their discontent quite clear, greeting the duo with audible boos. This reaction suggests that the couple's presence is far from the sensation they might have hoped for. The backlash has been amplified by a wave of criticism on social media, where thousands have taken to X (formerly Twitter) to express their dissatisfaction.
Many have directed their ire at Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez, questioning the wisdom of inviting the Sussexes. It appears that their visit is seen as an unwelcome distraction from the more pressing issues facing Colombia.
Royal expert Robert Jobson captured the local sentiment succinctly, noting that Colombians are puzzled by the visit. "Are they here to help?" Jobson asked, pointing out that the arrival of Harry and Meghan has caused people to squint, not just from the bright Colombian sun, but from the overwhelming glare of their celebrity status. According to Jobson, the royal couple may be more of a flashy distraction, diverting attention from Colombia's real issues rather than contributing to any meaningful aid mission. Moreover, there remains the perennial question of who is footing the bill for their security, flights, and luxurious accommodations.
In a surprising turn of events, Vice President Márquez defended her decision to invite the Sussexes, revealing that she was moved by their story as depicted on Netflix. "Meghan is a woman who deserves to come to the country and tell her story," Márquez explained, somewhat defensively. It seems that the allure of a Netflix series was enough to override more practical considerations, such as the safety and appropriateness of hosting the couple in a country notorious 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 situation's absurdity, Harry and Meghan have publicly shared their detailed itinerary. Critics argue that this move not only undermines their own security but also underscores a disturbing 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, continuing their work with the Archewell Foundation. They will also participate in an insight session at a local school. These engagements appear meticulously planned to enhance 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 noble cause is laudable, it has been met with skepticism. Critics argue that their commitment to digital civility may 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.
