Publications
The Sussexes’ voices were conspicuously absent as the celebrations of the queen’s historic Platinum Jubilee kicked off.
Neither Prince Harry nor his wife, Meghan Markle, shared any messages publicly in what is perhaps a telling sign that things are still far from rosy between the prince and his grandmother following his self-imposed exit from the royal family.
But while things might be strained between the queen and her grandson, it seems everything is going just fine between her and her daughter-in-law, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.
In a written message to the nation released to coincide with the start of the jubilee festivities, the British monarch announced that she’s given her consent for her eldest son’s wife to take the title of Queen Consort when Prince Charles (73) becomes king.
Because Camilla (74) was previously married and the British public were initially so hostile towards her because of the role she played in the break-up of Charles' marriage to Princess Diana, many experts predicted that upon the queen's death Camilla would be made Princess Consort.
But the queen has now spelt out her wishes so there can be no doubt in future.
“It is my sincere wish that when that time comes, Camilla will be known as Queen Consort as she continues her own loyal service,” she said, adding that she is sure the British people will give Charles and his wife “the same support that you have given me”.
People wondered what the Sussexes would have made of this announcement. And yet the couple haven't uttered a word about it publicly.
Their Archewell website, where they share all their public communications nowadays having abandoned social media because of the online “hate” they received, featured no reaction to this news or even acknowledgement of the queen’s incredible 70-year reign.
In contrast Prince William and his wife, Kate Middleton, retweeted the royal family’s post, which included the news of the announcement, and shared a news story on their Instagram account.
It would seem relations are still strained between the royal family and the Sussexes despite Charles’ attempt to extend an olive branch late last year by inviting his younger son and his family to come and stay with him in England.
It’s still unclear if Harry will return to the UK for the official Platinum Jubilee celebrations which will take place in the British summer from 2-5 June.
The prince recently balked at returning to his homeland, saying he would not do so unless he was afforded elite royal protection, a privilege he gave up when he turned his back on royal life.
Meanwhile a royal expert believes the queen will want Harry (37), Meghan (40) and their kids, Archie (2) and eight-month-old daughter Lilibet, to attend her celebrations in June.
Psychologist and royal commentator Dr Arthur Cassidy predicts that despite everything that has happened, the queen would welcome her grandson with open arms.
“Her faith in God drives her to forgiveness.”
He says although her grandson has caused a lot of problems for her, they once shared a close bond and she will be keen to get their relationship back on track.
“Now she has to control her mind and navigate how she is going to respond when it comes to the jubilee. Will she offer the hand of forgiveness and say, ‘Come and join in the celebrations?’ I think she will.”
Sources: dailymail.co.uk, geotv.com, Instagram
