Colombians Outraged as Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Prepare for Controversial Visit

In a whirlwind of royal drama, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are facing backlash from Colombians ahead of their upcoming four-day visit to Colombia.

The couple, who are set to embark on their journey this Thursday, is being accused of being used as political pawns by the Colombian government, and many locals are not holding back their disdain.

The royal pair, invited by Colombia's Vice President Francia Marquez—the first Black woman to hold that position—will tour key cities including Bogotá and Cartagena.

They are also slated to attend a cultural festival in Cali.

However, the excitement seems overshadowed by skepticism regarding the couple's intentions and the motives of the Colombian government.

Critics in Colombia argue that the visit is a strategic move by a struggling left-wing administration to distract citizens from a series of scandals plaguing the regime.

A prominent lawyer from Bogotá expressed doubts about the couple's genuine impact, suggesting that their celebrity status will merely serve to highlight the government's failures rather than uplift the communities they intend to engage with.

Many Colombians feel that Markle and Harry's presence is less about social issues and more about self-promotion.

The lawyer bluntly stated that the couple will likely focus on their own narratives rather than addressing the pressing concerns of the Colombian people.

This sentiment echoes previous criticisms of their past engagements, suggesting a pattern of behavior that prioritizes their image over substantive contributions.

As the couple prepares for their visit, the Colombian government remains tight-lipped about the specifics of their itinerary.

A spokesperson confirmed that most events will be under the control of the Vice President's office, hinting at a carefully curated media portrayal.

This level of control raises eyebrows, with many questioning whether the royals will genuinely connect with the Colombian populace or simply stage another PR event.

Adding fuel to the fire, security concerns have emerged regarding the couple's safety during their stay.

Despite Harry's previous claims about the dangers of the UK, he and Markle are choosing to visit Colombia, a country notorious for high crime rates and violence.

Both the UK and US governments have issued travel warnings, citing risks ranging from terrorism to violent crime.

Interestingly, the financial burden of their security appears to fall on Colombian taxpayers.

Reports suggest that the costs associated with protecting the Sussexes will be significant, prompting public outcry.

Many Colombians are frustrated that their resources are being allocated to safeguard two wealthy individuals who could easily fund their own security.

This situation mirrors ongoing debates in the UK about taxpayer-funded security for the couple, further complicating the narrative surrounding their international engagements.

As the Colombian government grapples with its own scandals, including corruption allegations against President Gustavo Petro's family, the optics of hosting Markle and Harry seem increasingly problematic.

Petro's administration, which promised social reforms and improvements for marginalized communities, is now under scrutiny due to personal controversies and governance challenges.

Critics argue that using high-profile figures like the Sussexes to divert attention from these issues is a desperate move that could backfire.

As the countdown to their visit continues, it's clear that many Colombians are not welcoming Markle and Harry with open arms.

Instead, they express anger and disappointment at the notion that their government would leverage the couple's fame for political gain while neglecting pressing local issues.

The situation points to a broader trend in royal engagements where celebrity status can overshadow meaningful dialogue and action.

While Markle and Harry may see this trip as an opportunity to promote their causes, the Colombian public remains skeptical, fearing that it will ultimately turn into yet another chapter in the ongoing saga of the “Megzi and Hazza Show.”

With growing discontent toward their visit, it remains to be seen how the couple will navigate this complex landscape and whether they can shift the focus from themselves to the very real issues facing Colombia.