Uganda pulls out of Prince Harry’s Invictus Games

Uganda has announced its withdrawal from the Invictus Games, becoming the first known country to reverse its decision to participate in the international sporting event for wounded military veterans just weeks after signing up.

The decision was announced by Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who linked the move to loyalty toward Britain’s King Charles III.

“In order not to be construed as being opposed to His Majesty King Charles III of the United Kingdom, whom we deeply revere, Uganda hereby withdraws from the Invictus Games,” the military chief wrote on X.

“We shall not participate in anything that does not have His Majesty’s approval.”

The withdrawal comes barely two months after Uganda was unveiled as the 26th nation to join the competition, which was founded by Prince Harry and celebrates the recovery and resilience of wounded and injured service personnel.

General Kainerugaba’s remarks followed reports surrounding a letter issued on behalf of King Charles that reiterated Prince Harry and Meghan’s status as non-working members of the Royal Family.

However, sources close to the British monarchy have reportedly maintained that the King supports initiatives that assist injured military veterans.

Organisers of the Invictus Games said they had not received any formal notification from Ugandan authorities and were seeking clarification over the announcement.

Uganda had been expected to participate in the next edition of the Games, scheduled for Birmingham next year. The country’s withdrawal raises uncertainty over whether it will ultimately take part in the event, although Ugandan officials say the final decision rests with General Kainerugaba, who could still reverse his position.

Source: BBC