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Saturday, 31 October 2026dailybeirut.com
Lifestyle
Uganda reversed its withdrawal from the 2027 Invictus Games on September 14 after a phone call between Sir Clive Alderton and General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, confirming King Charles’ support for the event.
Uganda’s military announced on September 14 that it would resume participation in the 2027 Invictus Games. The reversal followed a telephone conversation between Sir Clive Alderton, Principal Private Secretary to King Charles and Queen Camilla, and General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s military chief.
Kainerugaba had declared Uganda’s withdrawal on September 9, stating he did not wish the country’s involvement to be interpreted as opposition to King Charles. He emphasized that Uganda would not take part in any initiative without the monarch’s approval.
The decision to step back came amid new guidance issued by Buckingham Palace concerning Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. That letter reaffirmed the Sussexes’ status as non-working members of the royal family who conduct charitable activities independently.
According to People, a source close to Prince Harry attributed the confusion over Uganda’s participation to that guidance. Buckingham Palace maintained publicly that King Charles supports organizations aiding wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans.
ITV News reported that Alderton told Kainerugaba the King was “moved” by his consideration of the monarch’s position. Alderton also confirmed that King Charles had “no problem” with Uganda competing and encouraged the country to continue its involvement.
The Ugandan statement explicitly noted that Kainerugaba reinstated the Uganda People’s Defence Forces’ participation after speaking with Alderton by phone.
Uganda joined the Invictus community only in July and was preparing for its debut appearance at the Birmingham 2027 Games — the event founded by Prince Harry.
The official Birmingham 2027 website states the Games use sport to support the recovery of wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans.
For Prince Harry, Uganda’s return removes an unexpected complication from preparations. It also clarifies that his father does not oppose the Invictus Games.
King Charles did not personally place the call to Kainerugaba. Sir Clive Alderton acted on the monarch’s behalf.
