In brief
Uganda, which had recently joined Prince Harry’s Invictus Games, abruptly withdrew two months later. The decision was announced by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who said it was to avoid being construed as opposed to His Majesty King Charles III after a letter confirming Prince Harry and Meghan were no longer working royals. The Ugandan defence chief notes that participation is at his discretion, while the Invictus Games organisers have not received official confirmation. The boycott reflects broader diplomatic tensions and underscores the Games’ role in supporting wounded veterans.
In a sudden turn of events, Uganda has withdrawn its participation from the Invictus Games – a sporting event for wounded military veterans organised by the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry.
The announcement came from General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the chief of defence in Uganda and son of President Yoweri Museveni, via his official X (formerly Twitter) account. He stated that the decision to pull out was made “in order not to be construed as being opposed to His Majesty King Charles III of the United Kingdom, whom we deeply revere.”
The Ugandan government spokesman, Alan Kasujja, confirmed that the final decision rests with the general: “General Kainerugaba decides whether or not the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) participates in the Invictus Games. What you saw is his stated position. If it changes, he will let the world know.”
The move follows a letter sent earlier this week on behalf of King Charles clarifying that Prince Harry and Meghan are no longer working royals. The letter reportedly addressed the “Harry‑Meghan nonsense” that had been publicised and suggested the King’s approval is a prerequisite for participation in projects that support wounded service personnel.
Comments from the general were more colourful than the statement itself. He referenced feeling “the most handsome, daring and glorious Commander who ever lived,” and appeared angry over fellow officers dancing without his consent.
The Invictus Games organisers have not received any official notice of Uganda’s withdrawal and are seeking confirmation from their Ugandan contacts. They confirmed that no official withdrawal has been documented by the organizers.
Uganda had joined the Games in July, becoming the 26th country to take part, when Prince Harry was in London promoting the event. The next Games are scheduled in Birmingham, England, next year.
