The news of Prince Harry’s absence from his uncle, Robert Fellowes’, funeral sent ripples through the British media, sparking a wave of speculation and commentary.

Fellowes, the husband of Diana’s sister, Lady Jane Fellowes, and a former private secretary to Queen Elizabeth II, passed away on July 29th at the age of 82.

While Harry, who has been in close contact with his aunt, cousins, and late mother’s brother, Charles Spencer, following the death, decided not to attend the funeral, citing logistical challenges related to security arrangements.

The decision to skip the funeral, however, has been met with skepticism and even criticism.

Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020 and relocating to the United States, Harry and Meghan have lost their taxpayer-funded security, creating a complex situation.

Harry is required to inform British officials of any travel plans at least 28 days in advance under UK law, making last-minute trips, like attending a funeral, a logistical nightmare.

A source close to Harry explained that the short notice of the funeral, coupled with the security logistics, made it impossible for him to attend. They emphasized that Harry would like to spend more time in Britain, but the ongoing security issues pose a significant obstacle. The source lamented, “Harry would like to spend more time in Britain, but it’s a logistical nightmare for his team due to ongoing security issues.”

This explanation, however, has been met with a mixture of disbelief and cynicism. Many have pointed out that Harry has traveled to the UK in the past, suggesting that the security issues are not insurmountable. Furthermore, the timing of Harry’s announcement and the emphasis on security issues have led some to question whether he was even invited to the funeral in the first place. The lack of regular contact between Harry and his uncle over the years has fueled speculation that this might be a calculated move to garner sympathy and media attention.

Adding fuel to the fire, Harry and Meghan are planning a trip to Colombia, a country currently facing challenges with drug cartels, civil unrest, and US State Department travel warnings. This decision has raised eyebrows, particularly considering the logistical difficulties Harry cited for not attending his uncle’s funeral. Some speculate that the Colombia trip is a strategic move to enhance Harry’s public image or perhaps another opportunity for him to portray himself as a victim.

The situation highlights the ongoing tension between Harry and the British royal family, with the Sussexes continuing to attract attention for their actions and choices. Even a solemn family event like a funeral has become another platform for their personal narrative, fueling a sense of detachment and a focus on their own struggles. The absence of Harry at his uncle’s funeral, coupled with the planned trip to Colombia, has further solidified the perception that the Sussexes are more concerned with their own image and agenda than with the traditional values and obligations of the royal family.