King's private secretary steps in, Uganda confirms participation in Invictus Games
Uganda will compete in next year’s Invictus Games after Sir Clive Alderton called General Muhoozi Kainerugaba to resolve a dispute over the Harry-Meghan controversy.
Earlier this week the Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, announced on X that Uganda was pulling out of the upcoming Invictus Games because of the “Harry-Meghan nonsense” surrounding the couple’s return to Britain. The king’s principal private secretary, Sir Clive Alderton, then placed a discreet telephone call to the general, expressing that King Charles was moved by the Ugandan leader’s consideration of the monarch’s view on the event.
In the conversation, Alderton affirmed that the king had no objection to Uganda’s involvement and encouraged the preparation of a Ugandan team. Colonel Chris Magezi, acting director of Defence Public Information, later stated that the matter was settled and that the Uganda People’s Defence Force will participate in the Birmingham Games. Uganda joined the competition this year as its 26th member nation, the first from East Africa, and the reversal underscores the delicate diplomatic balancing act the king must perform within the Commonwealth.
Why it matters
The story shows how the British monarchy can influence Commonwealth relations and international sporting events amid royal family disputes.
How this story developed
- Sep 2 Prince George to start at Eton under unprecedented security and privacy rules
- Sep 5 Since arriving in the UK in July, the Duchess of Sussex has not made any public appearances, focusing on her sons Archie and Lilibet as they adjust to new schools and a new home. A source said her priority is getting the kids settled, while Prince Harry prepares for a series of charity events, including the WellChild Awards. The couple will not attend a Diana Award gala on 18 September, and a rumored dinner at Raffles London has been denied by their spokesperson.
- Sep 6 Prince Harry and Meghan have returned to the United Kingdom.
- Sep 6 They are reportedly searching for a residence in the North Cotswolds.
- Sep 8 A royal household letter confirming the couple’s private‑citizen status was issued.
- Sep 13 The royal family announced it will not release school updates or exam results for Prince George.
- Sep 13 King Charles sent a written notice to officials describing the Sussexes as private citizens and suspending their HRH titles.
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