Royal Couple’s Visit to Symbolic Colombian Town Sparks Speculation Ahead of Balmoral Meeting
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle appear to be sending a powerful message to King Charles and the royal family with their unexpected decision to visit a Colombian town celebrated as a 'symbol of anti-colonialism.'
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are set to visit San Basilio de Palenque, a historic town founded by runaway slaves that became South America’s first "free town." During their visit, the couple may also view the statue of Benkos Biohó, the town’s founding father who led a resistance after being captured by Portuguese slave traders in the late 16th century.
While Colombia is not part of the Commonwealth, the country has received visits from working members of the Royal Family, including King Charles and the Duchess of Edinburgh. However, some royal experts and historians suggest that Meghan and Harry's decision to highlight a town praised for its anti-colonial significance may be a pointed message to King Charles.
In addition to their visit to San Basilio de Palenque, the Sussexes are expected to attend the Petronio Alvarez Festival in Cali, which celebrates Afro-Colombian music. The couple's visit to Colombia is also understood to focus on exploring efforts to protect children from online harm.
Despite their intentions, the couple has faced criticism for their choice to visit Colombia, a country currently facing significant crime challenges, while continuing to claim that the UK is "unsafe" for them to visit. Commentator Adam Brooks criticized the decision, stating on GB News: "Choosing Colombia over the UK is crazy. He’s as wet and as hypocritical as they come, and she’s one massive diva."
