Transforming Britain's Global Identity: The Evolution of King Charles' State Visit Strategy
The state visit of King Charles to East Africa is redefining Britain's global image, showcasing the monarch's diplomatic efforts and strengthening the country's international standing
During King Charles' state visit to Kenya, a significant moment occurred.
An elderly war veteran sat patiently in a wheelchair, awaiting his chance to meet the British monarch at Nairobi's Commonwealth War Graves Commissions Kariokor cemetery on a calm Wednesday morning. This tranquil oasis exists amidst the bustling neighborhood, where streets are lined with makeshift market stalls.
Cpl. Samwel Nthigai Mburia, a valiant soldier, courageously fought for the British in multiple campaigns throughout World War II, spanning from 1939 to 1945. He was stationed in Ethiopia, Egypt, and Myanmar, serving under the command of Elizabeth II, who was not only Queen of the United Kingdom but also Kenya during that time. For his exceptional service, Mburia was awarded numerous medals. However, he made the decision to discard these accolades during the 1950s.
Because anyone who supported the British colonial power at that time became a target for the Mau Mau resistance, who were striving to reclaim their country. Kenya ultimately gained independence in December 1963, but the violent period leading up to it resulted in the deaths of thousands of people.
In anticipation of Kenya's 60th anniversary of independence, King Charles, accompanied by Queen Camilla, honored Kenya's fallen by laying a wreath at the cemetery. They then proceeded to meet veterans, including Mburia. Charles was briefed on Mburia's service and learned of his age. According to the palace, military records indicate that Mburia was born in 1906, making him 117 years old. This would suggest that he could possibly be the oldest person in the world. (According to Guinness World Records, the oldest verified living person is 116-year-old María Branyas Morera.)
Veteran Samwel Nthigai Mburia, who is believed to be 117 years old.
Charles presented Mburia with a tray of gleaming new medals to replace the ones he had lost. The King expressed a hope that they were all the correct medals, while also commenting on the veteran's age. "You must be on something like wild locusts and honey," he remarked. Mburia smiled, basking in the sunshine as his honors shimmered on his lap.
The Royals' focus on symbolism was evident in this interaction, which aligned perfectly with the King and his aides' objectives for the trip. While the old medals symbolized colonialism and violence, the new ones symbolize a transformed relationship between two sovereign nations.
Later that day, Charles convened a private meeting with representatives of those who had fought against the British in Kenya's quest for independence. The media was excluded from this gathering, but Evelyn Kimathi was in attendance.
Her father, Dedan Kimathi, led the resistance and was put to death by the British. She informed us that she had asked Charles for assistance in locating her father's missing body, as well as her family's aspirations to regain their land.
Being a constitutional monarch, the King's authority in these matters is limited, and it is his government that handles such demands. Nevertheless, he can lend an ear and ensure that individuals like Evelyn have their voices heard at the most esteemed levels. This is the influence of monarchy - it has the ability to bring attention to issues and arguments, even if it is unable to directly impact them.
This discussion exemplified Charles fulfilling the promise he had made at the state banquet during the start of the visit. "When returning to Kenya, it is of great importance to me to further my comprehension of these injustices and to personally meet those individuals and communities who were severely impacted," he expressed.
Moreover, the monarch explored Uhuru Gardens, the location of Kenya's declaration of independence, and explored a new museum that presents Kenya's history. The museum features a "Tunnel of Martyrs," which serves as a powerful reminder of past injustices through British-signed death warrants.
Some of the 6,000 Africans rounded up in Nairobi by police searching for Mau Mau rebels in April 1953.
Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
Charles approach of confronting challenging chapters in Britains history is a strategy weve seen from the new monarch in recent months.
This is Charles' third state visit, following ones to Germany and France, which were handled thoughtfully but with a distinct approach. After the UK's decision to leave the European Union in 2016, relations with both countries became strained. During those visits, Charles skillfully acknowledged the turbulent period in his speeches to politicians, receiving standing ovations from both parliaments.
King Charles' actions signify a departure from his mother's approach. Unlike Queen Elizabeth II, who consistently maintained impartiality and avoided contentious political matters, Charles fearlessly engages with these issues while managing to uphold a neutral stance.
Several, including Evelyn, will insist that "the struggle persists" and persist in requesting formal apologies and reparations. However, the reactions of the individuals he encounters and the local politicians towards Charles' actions during these journeys indicate that he is contributing to the process of healing these profound historical scars.
Although he may not possess a political role, he holds significant symbolic significance. The "Listening King" could potentially enhance the UK's reputation for being more empathetic.
CNNs Bethlehem Feleke contributed to this newsletter.
