Harry and Meghan"s costly Colombia visit sparks criticism

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's recent visit to Colombia has drawn significant criticism due to its high costs, reportedly amounting to nearly £50,000. The trip, which lasted seven days, was organized by Francia Marquez after she viewed their story on Netflix. The financial burden of the visit has raised concerns, especially as Colombia faces pressing issues like a healthcare crisis. Critics argue that the funds could have been better allocated to support local initiatives, such as children's soup kitchens and community projects. The security arrangements for the couple were particularly controversial, with reports indicating that approximately £1.5 million was spent on a security detail involving around 3,000 personnel. This has led to accusations of wasteful spending, with local politicians expressing frustration over the prioritization of celebrity visits over essential public services. The right-wing councillor for Cali, Andres Escobar, highlighted the disparity between the couple's lavish visit and the needs of the Colombian people. While some have praised the couple's visit as beneficial public relations, others have criticized it as a mere publicity stunt. Observers noted that the focus of the trip seemed to be more on Meghan than on any royal duties, with comments suggesting that Harry appeared to be in a secondary role. This has sparked discussions about the couple's status and their relevance in the public eye. Despite the mixed reactions, the visit has reignited debates about the role of former royals and the implications of their public appearances. The backlash reflects broader concerns about celebrity culture and its impact on societal priorities, particularly in countries facing economic challenges.