In a growing wave of discontent, many Colombians are expressing their frustration over the upcoming visit of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry.
The royal couple is set to embark on a four-day tour of Colombia, which has sparked accusations that they are being used as political pawns by the Colombian government.
As they prepare for their trip, the sentiment among locals appears far from welcoming.
Scheduled to begin this Thursday, the Sussexes will touch down in Bogotá, the nation’s capital, before heading to the historic city of Cartagena and attending a cultural festival in Cali.
Their visit comes at the invitation of Colombia’s Vice President, Francia Márquez, who is notably the first Black woman to hold that position.
While the couple is expected to engage with various community groups, many believe that their presence serves another agenda altogether.
For numerous Colombians, the visit is perceived as a calculated move by the left-leaning government to distract from its own scandals.
A prominent lawyer from Bogotá voiced concerns to the Mail on Sunday, stating, “I’m sure Meghan and Harry mean well, but everyone here is talking about how obviously they are being manipulated.” This sentiment reflects a broader skepticism about the couple’s intentions and the authenticity of their engagement with local issues.
Critics argue that instead of promoting Colombian culture or social issues, Markle and Harry are primarily focused on self-promotion.
Drawing parallels to past events, some observers recall the Sussexes’ controversial trip to Nigeria during the Invictus Games, where many felt they prioritized their brand over genuine outreach.
The Colombian government, grappling with scandals since taking office two years ago, seems desperate for a public relations boost.
With accusations of corruption swirling around President Gustavo Petro and his administration, the timing of the Sussexes’ visit raises eyebrows.
Critics suggest that the couple’s star power is being leveraged to divert attention from the government’s failings.
Despite the planned itinerary, details about the visit remain sparse.
The vice president’s office has confirmed the trip but has been tight-lipped about specific events.
A spokesperson indicated that most activities would be tightly controlled, hinting at a strategic approach to managing the couple’s public image while in Colombia.
Security also looms as a significant issue.
Reports suggest that the cost of protecting the royals during their stay will fall on Colombian taxpayers, leading to further outrage among citizens.
Many question why multi-millionaires like Harry and Meghan cannot fund their own security, especially when the country is facing pressing economic challenges.
Amidst rising crime rates and warnings from both the UK and US governments about travel safety in Colombia, the decision to visit has drawn criticism.
Observers note the irony of Harry, who has previously expressed fears for Meghan’s safety in the UK, choosing to travel to a country with its own security concerns.
The potential backlash against the Colombian government is palpable.
Citizens are not only frustrated about the financial implications of hosting the Sussexes but are also concerned about the broader narrative that may emerge from the visit.
Many believe that the focus will shift away from pressing Colombian issues and instead become another chapter in the Sussexes’ ongoing saga.
As the visit approaches, the mood among Colombians remains tense.
There is a shared sense of disillusionment regarding the idea that their country is being used as a backdrop for a royal publicity stunt.
The resentment is palpable, with many feeling that rather than shining a light on Colombian culture, the visit will serve primarily to elevate the Sussexes’ profile.
In light of these developments, it seems increasingly clear that both the Colombian government and the Sussexes may find themselves facing unintended consequences.
What was intended as a high-profile visit could easily backfire, drawing more criticism than acclaim.
As the world watches, the real question remains: will this trip help or hinder the reputations of those involved?
With the stage set for a dramatic encounter, all eyes will be on Colombia as it braces for the arrival of Meghan and Harry.
The unfolding events promise to be anything but ordinary, as the complexities of celebrity, politics, and public sentiment collide in a manner that could reshape perceptions on both sides of the Atlantic.
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