Commonwealth officials have officially ousted Prince Harry as the patron of the Invictus Games, responding to mounting pressure from veteran groups demanding his removal.

This decision has ignited a firestorm of controversy, with many questioning Meghan Markle’s impact on Harry and her involvement in the escalating tensions surrounding the Games.

Established by Prince Harry in 2014, the Invictus Games have stood as a symbol of resilience and inspiration for wounded, injured, and ill servicemen and women.

This international sporting event has earned global praise for its uplifting message and the transformative effect it has had on the lives of veterans.

Harry’s dedication to the Games was viewed as an extension of his commitment and service to the military community, a role he held dear.

However, in recent times, a growing number of veterans have expressed discontent with Harry’s association, particularly following his and Meghan Markle’s decision to step back from senior royal responsibilities in 2020.

Many veterans felt deserted, interpreting his departure as a betrayal of the royal family’s long-standing tradition of military service.

This sentiment was exacerbated by the couple’s relocation to the United States and their high-profile ventures in the media, which some perceived as a diversion from the causes they once championed.

The outcry from veterans reached a tipping point when influential figures within the community publicly called for Harry’s resignation from the Invictus Games.

They contended that his actions, coupled with controversial public statements and media endeavors, had tarnished the reputation of the Games and overshadowed its core purpose.

Faced with mounting pressure from both veterans and the public, Commonwealth officials made the unprecedented decision to strip Harry of his role as the patron of the Invictus Games.

In a released statement, officials underscored the importance of prioritizing the integrity and mission of the Games above individual associations.

They argued that the decision was taken in the best interests of the veterans and the future of the event.

The repercussions of removing Harry as the patron of the Invictus Games are expected to be significant.

For Harry, it signifies a profound personal and public setback, severing one of his most cherished links to his military background.

This development also raises uncertainties about his future involvement in other charitable and philanthropic initiatives, especially those connected to veterans.

For Meghan Markle, this latest twist adds another layer to her tumultuous rapport with the British public and media.

The scrutiny and censure she encounters are unlikely to diminish, with many persisting in questioning her influence over Harry and her role in their joint decisions.

The removal of Prince Harry as the patron of the Invictus Games stands as a contentious and polarizing move.

It highlights the ongoing strains between Harry and the veteran community, as well as the divisive impact of Meghan Markle.