Uganda has withdrawn from the Invictus Games, a sports event for wounded military veterans organized by the Duke of Sussex, following a statement by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the country’s chief of defence. The announcement, made in a social media post on X, cited respect for King Charles III as the reason for the decision. Kainerugaba stated that Uganda would not participate in any activity without the monarch’s approval.

The withdrawal comes two months after Uganda joined the games as the 26th participating nation. The decision was confirmed by Ugandan government spokesman Alan Kasujja, who noted that Kainerugaba has the authority to decide military participation. Kasujja added that any change in the position would be communicated publicly.

The move appears linked to a letter sent by the royal household on behalf of King Charles III, which clarified that Prince Harry and Meghan, now back in the UK, are not working royals. A source close to the Sussexes suggested that Uganda’s withdrawal was a consequence of this letter, which was shared with the media. The letter emphasized that the couple’s charitable work is a personal matter, not part of the royal family’s official duties.

Kainerugaba’s statement included a reference to the “Harry-Meghan nonsense,” suggesting that internal divisions within the Ugandan military over the Sussexes’ status influenced the decision. The general also expressed support for the monarch, stating, “I support the monarch. Period.”

The Invictus Games, which celebrate the resilience of wounded service personnel, have not yet received official confirmation of Uganda’s withdrawal. A spokesperson for the games said they are seeking clarification from Ugandan contacts. The event, scheduled for next year in Birmingham, had previously welcomed Uganda as a participant, with the country’s defence minister praising the involvement as a significant step for its military.

Kainerugaba, who is widely seen as a potential successor to President Yoweri Museveni, has a history of provocative social media posts, including threats against political rivals and demands for personal favors. His recent comments about the Sussexes and the royal family suggest a broader political and personal stance that may influence military and national decisions.

The decision to withdraw from the games raises questions about the impact on the event’s participants and the broader implications for international military cooperation. No official response from the Invictus Games or the Sussexes has been provided. The situation remains under review, with further developments yet to be confirmed.