In brief
The Ugandan armed forces announced today that it would no longer participate in the Invictus Games, a sports event for wounded military veterans organised by Prince Harry. The decision follows political discussions with the British monarchy about the Duke of Sussex’s role and was described as a gesture to avoid appearing opposed to King Charles III. The withdrawal came after Uganda had announced its participation only two months earlier, making it the 26th country to join the games. The announcement was made by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the army chief and son of President Yoweri Museveni, via a post on X. He said the move was to be in line with the King’s approval and that future participation would be decided by the military hierarchy. Uganda’s statement emphasised its respect for the monarchy while highlighting the need for clarity on official support from UK authorities. While the Invictus Games promote resilience and rehabilitation for wounded service members worldwide, Uganda’s exit signals how national politics can intersect with international humanitarian initiatives.
Uganda pulls out of the Invictus Games, a sports event for wounded military veterans run by the Duke of Sussex, only two months after the country said it would join.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, chief of defence and son of President Yoweri Museveni, made the announcement in a post on X. He said the decision to withdraw was "in order not to be construed as being opposed to His Majesty King Charles III".
A Ugandan government spokesman confirmed that the general’s stance was final, stating: "General Kainerugaba decides whether or not the UPDF participates in the Invictus Games. What you saw is his stated position. If it changes, he will let the world know."
The announcement follows a letter sent this week on behalf of the King, clarifying that Prince Harry and Meghan are not working royals. A report in The Times quoted the general’s concerns about the "Harry‑Meghan nonsense" as a backdrop to the decision.
“In order not to be construed as being opposed to His Majesty King Charles III of the United Kingdom, whom we deeply revere, Uganda hereby withdraws from the Invictus Games,” the general posted overnight.
He added, "We shall not participate in anything that does not have His Majesty’s approval."
Royal sources said the King supports projects that help wounded service personnel. A spokesman for the Invictus Games has said they have not received official confirmation of a withdrawal and are seeking clarification from contacts in Uganda.
Among other posts on X, General Kainerugaba stated: "I consider myself the most handsome, most daring and glorious Commander who ever lived." He also expressed frustration over other generals dancing without his permission.
Uganda had become the 26th country to take part in the games after announcing participation in July, when Prince Harry was in London promoting the event. The next games are to be held next year in Birmingham.
