An insider has shed light on the reason behind Prince William’s inability to accompany King Charles on his upcoming tour of Samoa.
The highly anticipated trip, scheduled for October, has created a buzz within royal circles.
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Despite the King’s determination to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa on October 21, Prince William is unable to step in on his behalf.
Sources reveal that this decision stems from a crucial factor – the Princess of Wales’ ongoing battle with cancer.
The King, aged 75, is resolute in his commitment to fulfill his duties, even in the face of medical advice cautioning against extensive travel during his health struggles.
The responsibility of representing the King at the CHOGM falls on shoulders other than Prince William’s due to Kate’s health condition.
The insider disclosed to the Express that while Anne and other working royals are commendably filling in the gaps, their roles do not align with the level required to stand in for the King as the leader of the Commonwealth.
Princess Anne and Prince Edward, despite their royal status, are also excluded from attending the significant event.
Shortly after King Charles revealed his cancer diagnosis, Princess Kate, 42, bravely shared her own health battle in a heartfelt video message.
Her diagnosis, discovered during post-operative tests following a planned surgery in January, added another layer of complexity to the royal family’s already challenging circumstances.
Preparations for the King’s anticipated trip, including the CHOGM and an official state visit to Australia, are underway.
Queen Camilla, 76, is set to accompany King Charles on his journey in October.
The source emphasized the pivotal role of the King’s presence at the Commonwealth meeting and subsequent visit to Australia in upholding the unity of the Commonwealth, despite the challenges posed by long-distance travel and time zone differences.
Despite medical advisories cautioning against strenuous travel, especially given the potential for increased fatigue, King Charles remains resolute in his decision to forge ahead with the trip.
Prior to his diagnosis in February, a five-day itinerary from October 21 to 25 had been confirmed.
Buckingham Palace reassured the public that adjustments to the King’s engagements would be made in accordance with medical advice, emphasizing that plans for future events remain intact.
In light of his health condition, King Charles has limited his public appearances this year, with his last sighting dating back to March 31 when he led the Royal Family in Easter Mass at Windsor.