In brief
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s chief of defence, declared on X that Uganda will not participate in the Invictus Games to maintain respect for King Charles III. The move follows a recent letter stating Prince Harry and Meghan are no longer working royals and a broader geopolitical frown on their projects. Uganda had become the 26th country to join the games in July; the game is now scheduled to take place in Birmingham next year. The decision reflects both diplomatic caution and internal military politics, with local officials noting the general’s sole authority over UPDF participation. Royal sources confirm the king encourages initiatives supporting wounded servicemen and women, the organising committee seeks further clarification from Ugandan contacts.
Uganda is pulling out of the Invictus Games, the sports event for wounded military veterans organised by Prince Harry, just two months after the country announced it would join.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, chief of defence and son of President Yoweri Museveni, posted to X that the withdrawal was made “in order not to be construed as being opposed to His Majesty King Charles III.”
A government spokesman confirmed this stance, saying the general alone decides whether the Uganda People’s Defence Force participates in the Invictus Games. He added the decision could change if the stance shifted.
The announcement follows a letter sent this week on behalf of the King clarifying that Prince Harry and Meghan are no longer working royals. A Times report cites the general’s concerns about the “Harry‑Meghan nonsense” as a possible background to the decision.
The King encourages projects supporting wounded service personnel, although royal commentators have noted the general’s move has sparked additional diplomatic caution.
Uganda had joined the games in July when Prince Harry, while in London, promoted the event. The country was the 26th to participate, and the next games will be held in Birmingham a year from now.
For further context, see the UK royal family news and related articles on the king’s statement on the Duke of Sussex.
