The recent visit of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to Colombia has been anything but smooth sailing, marked by controversy and a notable diplomatic snub.
As the Sussexes embarked on their four-day tour, the warm welcome from Vice President Francia Marquez sharply contrasted with the chilling absence of President Gustavo Petro, who, despite being based in Bogota, chose not to meet the royal couple.
The visit kicked off with all the expected fanfare, with Meghan making a poignant nod to her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana, by wearing her iconic earrings.
This gesture aimed to evoke feelings of nostalgia and connection to the royal family.
However, it quickly became apparent that public sentiment was not swayed, as the couple’s arrival spiraled into a series of missteps.
On their second day, Meghan and Harry visited Collegio La Giralda in Santa Fe, where they interacted with local students, planted trees, and took part in art sessions.
It should have been a heartwarming occasion, but it was marred by a significant letdown.
The children had anticipated meeting renowned football star James Rodriguez, only to find themselves greeted by the Sussexes, whose star power fell flat against local expectations.
The Colombian public’s reaction has been overwhelmingly negative, worsened by the glaring absence of President Petro.
His refusal to meet the royal visitors sends a strong message of disapproval, highlighting a deliberate choice to snub the Sussexes.
Given the President’s role in representing the nation and engaging with international figures, this absence is particularly telling.
Public frustration has been palpable, with many taking to social media to voice their discontent.
Critiques, translated by Dan Uncor, have labeled Meghan and Harry as “good-for-nothing celebrities,” “freeloaders,” and even “parasites.”
One particularly pointed comment bluntly questioned the couple’s worth, asking, “What’s Meghan Markle’s merit, marrying a prince?”
This stark commentary reflects a widespread sentiment that views their visit as a misuse of resources.
In a country where nearly half the population lives near or below the poverty line, the sight of Meghan’s lavish $72,000 wardrobe has sparked outrage.
The stark contrast between the couple’s opulence and the harsh realities faced by many Colombians has only deepened public resentment.
Adding fuel to the fire are the astronomical security costs associated with the Sussexes’ visit.
Their 15-car convoy and heavy security detail are being funded by Colombian taxpayers, a fact that has not gone unnoticed.
Many citizens are questioning why they should shoulder the financial burden of protecting private individuals who lack official governmental representation.
Critics argue that the visit offers little in terms of tangible benefits for Colombia.
Instead, it is perceived as a self-serving PR stunt rather than a genuine philanthropic endeavor.
The socio-economic backdrop of Colombia amplifies this dissatisfaction, as extreme poverty affects approximately 11.4% of the population, and the top 10% earn nearly 40% of the national income.
The Sussexes’ display of wealth feels not only disconnected from reality but also deeply insensitive, given the economic struggles many Colombians face daily.
Their Colombian tour has been overshadowed by the significant diplomatic snub from President Petro and the widespread public dissatisfaction.
As the couple attempts to project an image of philanthropy, their efforts seem to have backfired spectacularly.
The disconnect between their high-profile visit and the local realities is glaring.
While Colombians grapple with the financial strain of hosting such illustrious guests, it becomes clear that this royal visit has done more harm than good, leaving a bitter taste in the mouths of many.