In brief
Uganda has withdrawn from the Invictus Games, a sports event for wounded veterans organised by Prince Harry. The decision was announced two months after the country had said it would join. The move was justified as a gesture of respect for King Charles III, with the army chief saying the nation would not participate without His Majesty’s approval. The withdrawal has raised questions about Uganda’s diplomatic stance and the future of its involvement in the Games.
Uganda is withdrawing from the Invictus Games, a sports competition for wounded military veterans run by the Duke of Sussex a mere two months after the country had announced it would participate.
In a post on X, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, chief of defence and son of the nation's president, stated that the withdrawal was “in order not to be construed as being opposed to His Majesty King Charles III”. The general added that the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) would only take part in events with the king’s approval.
Government sources confirmed the announcement and noted that the decision could change if the general’s position shifts. The general also posted several tongue‑in‑cheek comments on his social media, reflecting his personal brand.
Uganda’s participation was first announced in July, when Prince Harry promoted the Games in London with a promise of showcasing the resilience of wounded soldiers and women. This move made Uganda the 26th country to join the event.
Stakeholders of the Invictus Games have reportedly sought clarification from Ugandan contacts, as no official statement on the withdrawal has been released by the tournament organisers. Despite the development, royal official channels remain upbeat about projects that support recovered service members.
