The News
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Chief of Staff Exits Amid Tour Tensions
In a surprising turn of events, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's newly appointed chief of staff, Josh Kettler, has left his position just three months after stepping into the role.
Reports indicate that Kettler's departure stemmed from a significant disagreement with Meghan regarding the budget for their upcoming tour of Colombia.
This trip, which has been labeled a quasi-royal tour, marks a notable moment for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as they navigate life outside their official royal duties.
Despite no longer being representatives of the British monarchy, the couple aims to engage with Colombian leaders and communities during their visit.
However, it seems that Meghan's keen eye for detail when it comes to budgeting led to tensions with Kettler, who was brought on board to help them transition into this new chapter of their lives.
Sources familiar with the situation shared that Kettler, known for his background with companies like Patagonia and Cognition, was initially hired on a trial basis.
The decision to part ways was reportedly mutual, with both parties recognizing that the fit wasn't right.
This abrupt exit, occurring just days before their highly anticipated trip, has raised eyebrows among royal observers and fans alike.
As the couple prepares for their Colombian adventure, questions linger about whether they will appoint an interim chief of staff or proceed without one during this crucial time.
This latest development adds to a growing list of staff departures since the Sussexes launched their Archwell organization in 2020, raising concerns about stability within their team.
A former employee of Archwell expressed unease about the high turnover rate, suggesting that many who worked there wouldn't return if given the opportunity.
“During my time there, I never heard anyone say they would take the job again,” the ex-staffer revealed to the Daily Mail.
This sentiment is particularly striking considering that many of these individuals had impressive track records in demanding roles at high-performance companies.
The upcoming Colombia tour is especially significant for Harry and Meghan, marking their first major international engagement since stepping back from royal duties.
They will visit key cities like Bogotá, Cartagena, and Cali, aiming to connect with youth and women advocating for progress in Colombia.
Yet, the shadow of budgetary disputes looms large, complicating their preparations.
Meghan's meticulous nature has long been both a strength and a source of friction.
While her dedication to her causes has earned her praise, it appears that her desire for control has occasionally led to clashes with her team.
As they gear up for this important journey, the pressure on Meghan to manage logistics effectively is palpable.
Criticism surrounding their quasi-royal tour has also surfaced, with some voices suggesting that Harry should take this chance to publicly address his past drug use while in Colombia.
This added layer of scrutiny could further strain the already tense dynamics within the Sussex camp.
As the couple readies themselves for the Columbia tour, the fallout from Kettler's departure casts a shadow over their plans.
The ongoing controversy related to budget discussions and Meghan's conflict with Kettler has only intensified the media's focus on the couple, highlighting the challenges they face in their new independent roles.
With all eyes on them, the Sussexes must navigate not only the logistical hurdles of their tour but also the underlying tensions that have emerged within their inner circle.
As they step into this new phase of public engagement, the stakes have never been higher, and the world is watching closely.