Uganda is withdrawing from Prince Harry’s Invictus Games, just two months after announcing plans to join.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s military chief, announced the decision on social media.
He said Uganda did not want its participation to be seen as opposition to Britain’s King Charles III.
Uganda announces Invictus Games withdrawal
Kainerugaba said Uganda would not take part in an event without the King’s approval.
The BBC reported that Ugandan government spokesman Alan Kasujja confirmed Kainerugaba’s authority over the decision.
Kasujja said the military chief decides whether the Uganda People’s Defence Force takes part in the games.
However, royal sources said King Charles supports projects that help wounded military personnel.
Meanwhile, the Invictus Games said it had not received official notice of Uganda’s withdrawal. Organisers were seeking further information.
Decision follows royal clarification
The announcement came after a letter sent on behalf of King Charles.
The letter made clear that Prince Harry and Meghan remain non-working members of the Royal Family.
A source close to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex told the BBC that Uganda’s withdrawal followed the letter.
Kainerugaba said Uganda did not want to appear to be taking a position against the King.
Uganda joined only two months ago
Uganda announced plans to join the Invictus Games in July.
At the time, Prince Harry was in London promoting the international sporting event.
Uganda was set to become the 26th participating country.
The next Invictus Games are due to take place in Birmingham next year.
Prince Harry founded the event to support wounded, injured and sick military personnel and veterans.
For now, organisers are waiting for formal confirmation of Uganda’s withdrawal.