Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Chief of Staff Resigns Ahead of Colombia Trip
In a surprising turn of events, Josh Kettler, who served as chief of staff for Prince Harry for just three months, has resigned by mutual agreement. This decision comes at a critical juncture as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex prepare for their upcoming trip to Colombia, aimed at promoting their Archewell Foundation. Kettler's departure raises questions about the stability of their team, especially as they will now navigate this international engagement without a chief of staff.
Kettler joined the Sussexes just before their official visit to Nigeria and accompanied Prince Harry during significant events, including the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games in London. His brief tenure highlights the challenges faced by the couple in maintaining a steady support structure, particularly given the complexities of their public and private lives.
Upcoming Colombia Visit: A Test for the Sussexes
Despite the recent shake-up in their staff, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are set to visit Colombia from August 12 to 18, where they will engage with local leaders and communities. This trip, announced by Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez, aims to address violence against children, a cause close to their hearts. The couple will visit major cities including Bogotá, Cartagena, and Cali, where they will connect with young people and women dedicated to social progress.
The timing of Kettler's resignation poses additional challenges, as the Sussexes must now handle media relations and logistics independently. As they embark on their second official international trip since relocating to the United States in 2020, it remains to be seen how they will manage the complexities of their roles without a chief of staff during this pivotal visit.
- The resignation of Josh Kettler is not an isolated incident; the Sussexes have experienced significant turnover in their staff since their marriage in 2018. Reports indicate that around 18 employees have left their service, with at least nine departing while they established their new life in California. This pattern of attrition raises questions about the work environment and the pressures associated with supporting the high-profile couple. As the Sussexes prepare for their Colombia trip, they will need to navigate not only the logistics of their engagements but also the potential risks associated with traveling in a country that has faced challenges related to violence and crime. The couple's commitment to addressing social issues through their foundation will be put to the test as they engage with local communities and leaders.
