The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, have stirred up a storm in Canada after reaching out to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for private security arrangements during their upcoming visit for the Invictus Games.
The international sporting event, dedicated to wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans, is scheduled to take place in Vancouver and Whistler in February 2025.
Having stepped away from their royal duties in 2020 and relocated to California, where they have been busy securing deals with major media platforms like Netflix and Spotify, the couple penned a letter to RCMP Governor Brenda Luckey last week.
In the letter, they requested a team of officers to safeguard them from potential threats and intrusive paparazzi while attending the games.
Citing their status as internationally protected persons under the Vienna Convention, Harry and Meghan emphasized their entitlement to security services.
Although they expressed willingness to contribute financially towards the security costs, the exact amount was left unspecified.
However, the leaked letter has not been well-received by the Canadian public and media.
Critics have accused the Sussexes of displaying arrogance and a sense of entitlement by expecting special treatment from Canadian authorities and taxpayers.
It’s worth noting that over $334,000 had already been spent on their security during previous visits to the country.
The letter’s content has triggered a wave of backlash against the couple.
In response to the security request, the RCMP swiftly turned down the appeal, citing resource constraints and the substantial financial implications involved.
According to an official statement, the police force clarified that Harry and Meghan no longer qualified for security assistance as they were no longer senior members of the royal family or residents of Canada.
The RCMP highlighted the impracticality and inappropriateness of fulfilling the security request due to limited personnel availability and the significant financial burden it would impose.
While the police force affirmed its commitment to providing security for the Invictus Games and its participants, it made it clear that personal security for the Sussexes was not within its purview.
Previously, the RCMP had offered interim security to the Sussexes upon their initial move to Canada in early 2020.
However, the arrangement was terminated in March 2020 following the couple’s formal withdrawal from royal duties.
The decision of the RCMP has evoked mixed reactions from various quarters.
While some lauded the RCMP for taking a firm stance against the Sussexes, accusing them of disrespecting the monarchy, others sympathized with Harry and Meghan.
The couple has claimed to be victims of racism, bullying, and harassment from the British press and royal circles.
The decision has also led to expressions of outrage and disappointment from supporters of the Sussexes.
Despite the setback, sources close to Harry and Meghan revealed their determination to proceed with their visit to Canada and participation in the games.
They view the RCMP’s decision as a personal affront and a consequence of their commitment to honesty and authenticity.
The couple remains resolute in defending their rights and principles, with a readiness to pursue legal recourse if necessary, backed by a global network of loyal supporters.