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**Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Colombia Tour Sparks Controversy Among Royal Commentators**
In a surprising turn of events, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have announced plans for an unofficial visit to Colombia this November.
This news has set off a flurry of discussions among royal experts and insiders, raising questions about the implications of their trip for the British royal family.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will embark on this journey at the personal invitation of Colombia's Vice President, Francia Marquez.
Their upcoming visit follows a trip to Nigeria in May, which was described by many as a “faux royal tour” due to its regal undertones, despite lacking any official royal backing.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams weighed in on the situation during an interview with The Sun, suggesting that this Colombian venture could pose challenges for the royals back in Britain.
He pointed out that Harry and Meghan tend to command significant media attention, potentially overshadowing the royal family's activities.
“When you have former senior working members of the royal family doing what the royal family would like to do, it creates difficulties,” he remarked.
Fitzwilliams further elaborated on the struggles the royal family is facing, especially following health issues affecting prominent figures like Princess Kate and King Charles earlier this year.
These circumstances have left a gap in royal engagements, one that other family members have found hard to fill.
“The institution needs this oxygen,” he stated, referring to the media spotlight that the Sussexes often attract.
The potential for Harry and Meghan to eclipse the royal family has reportedly stirred discontent among courtiers.
A former courtier expressed concern over the couple's actions, suggesting they demonstrate a lack of respect for the king and traditional royal protocols.
Royal tours are typically seen as opportunities for diplomacy, aimed at fostering relationships on behalf of Britain, but this upcoming visit appears to diverge from that norm.
Adding to the intrigue, the choice of Colombia as a destination has raised eyebrows, given its history of high crime rates and civil unrest.
Both the UK and US governments have issued travel advisories for the country, citing risks related to terrorism, civil disorder, and kidnapping.
This raises questions about the couple's decision, particularly in light of Harry's previous remarks regarding the dangers of traveling to the UK with his family.
Royal commentator Charles Ray expressed astonishment at the Sussexes' choice to visit Colombia, stating, “I had to check the calendar to make sure it wasn't April 1st.” He pointed out that the UK Foreign Office advises against travel to certain areas in Colombia, including Cali, which is on the couple's itinerary.
Ray also highlighted the apparent contradiction in Harry's stance, noting that while he claims it's unsafe for his family to be in the UK, he is now planning a trip to a country with its own set of risks.
“I'm not suggesting that Harry and Meghan are in danger of being kidnapped because they have total security, but this is ridiculous,” he said.
As the couple prepares for their Colombian adventure, the royal family and commentators will be closely monitoring how this unofficial tour unfolds.
The impact it may have on the dynamics within the royal family and their public image remains to be seen.
What are your thoughts on this development?
The conversation around this tour is bound to grow, and many are eager to hear opinions from both sides.
Until then, the world watches and waits to see how this saga evolves.