King Charles arrives in Kenya alongside Queen Camilla as calls for official apology continue

Reuters
Svar Nanan-Sen

By Svar Nanan-Sen


Published: 31/10/2023

- 08:47

Updated: 31/10/2023

- 08:47

It is the King's first State Visit to Africa and a Commonwealth nation since becoming monarch

King Charles has arrived in Kenya alongside Queen Camilla for a historic State Visit amid calls for the monarch to issue an official apology regarding colonial era abuses.

The four-day trip has been billed as an opportunity to strengthen ties between the UK and Kenya.


It is the King's first State Visit to Africa and a Commonwealth nation since becoming monarch in September 2022.

King Charles and Queen Camilla arrived in Kenya late on Monday night and were welcomed at a formal ceremony on Tuesday by Kenyan President William Ruto.

King Charles

Reuters

The King is set to become the first royal to convey his sorrow over Britain's handling of the Mau Mau uprising during his State Visit to Kenya this week.

Charles III is expected to admit that Kenyans were subjected to torture during the 1950s uprising, however, he will refrain from extending an official apology.

In 2013, the UK Government consented to pay compensation of roughly £20million to Kenya.

King Charles

Reuters

Insiders have claimed that the King will abide by Government policy by not apologising or bringing up the topic of reparations while travelling on his royal tour.

A Palace aide told the Mail: "The King will be working on his speeches for the state visit up to the last minute and always has sensitivity in mind.

"He will be mindful of expressing deep sorrow."

King Charles

Reuters

King Charles

Reuters

The King's deputy private secretary, Chris Fitzgerald, said: "His Majesty will take time during the visit to deepen his understanding of the wrongs suffered in this period by the people of Kenya."

The visit falls in line with Kenya's plans to commemorate its 60th anniversary of independence.

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