Prince Harry and Meghan Markle‘s recent trip to Colombia has turned into a whirlwind of controversy, overshadowed by a glaring diplomatic snub from the nation’s highest office.
As the Sussexes embarked on their much-anticipated four-day tour, they were met with a warm welcome from Vice President Francia Marquez.
However, the absence of President Gustavo Petro, who resides in Bogota, spoke volumes about the couple’s reception—or lack thereof.
The visit kicked off with all the expected fanfare befitting such high-profile guests.
Meghan made headlines by wearing Princess Diana‘s iconic earrings, a gesture meant to evoke royal nostalgia and highlight her charitable intentions.
Unfortunately, this move did little to sway public sentiment, as the couple’s arrival quickly spiraled into a debacle.
On the second day, Meghan and Harry visited Colegio Legado in Santa Fe, where they interacted with local students, planted trees, and participated in art sessions.
This should have been a heartwarming experience, but it was marred by an unfortunate blunder.
The children had been led to believe they would meet renowned football star James Rodriguez.
Instead, they found themselves in the company of Meghan and Harry, whose celebrity status fell short of local expectations.
The Colombian public’s reaction has been overwhelmingly negative, particularly given President Petro’s conspicuous absence.
His refusal to meet the royal couple sends a clear message of disdain, highlighting a deliberate choice to snub the Sussexes.
In a role that typically involves engaging with international figures, the president’s decision to avoid the couple is a significant diplomatic misstep.
Criticism from the public has been swift and harsh.
Translated comments reveal a torrent of disapproval directed at Meghan and Harry, labeling them as “good-for-nothing celebrities” and “freeloaders.” One particularly pointed remark questioned Meghan’s merit, asking bluntly, “What has she done?
Marrying a prince?” Such sentiments underscore a widespread belief that the visit is a waste of resources.
In a country where nearly half the population lives near or below the poverty line, the Sussexes’ display of wealth has sparked outrage.
Meghan’s $72,000 wardrobe stands in stark contrast to the economic struggles faced by many Colombians, deepening the public’s resentment towards the couple.
Adding fuel to the fire are the exorbitant security costs associated with their visit.
The couple’s 15-car convoy and heavy security detail, funded by Colombian taxpayers, have not gone unnoticed.
Many Colombians are questioning why they should bear the financial burden of protecting private individuals who do not represent any government or institution.
Critics have also pointed out the perceived lack of tangible benefits from the Sussexes’ visit.
Many argue that their presence does little to address Colombia’s pressing issues, viewing the trip more as a self-serving PR stunt than a genuine philanthropic effort.
The socioeconomic context of Colombia exacerbates the discontent surrounding the royal visit.
With extreme poverty affecting around 11.4% of the population and a significant income disparity, where the top 10% earn nearly 40% of the national income, the Sussexes’ display of wealth feels not only disconnected but deeply insensitive.
As the dust settles on Meghan and Harry’s Colombian tour, it’s clear that their visit has been overshadowed by a significant diplomatic snub and widespread public dissatisfaction.
What was intended to be a showcase of philanthropy has instead exposed a profound disconnect with local realities.
Colombians are left grappling with the financial strain and symbolic insult of hosting these high-profile guests.
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