Duchess of Kent bans Camilla from attending her 90th birthday party in Buckingham Palace garden
In a shock twist that has sparked royal intrigue, the Duchess of Kent has reportedly banned Queen Camilla from attending her grand 90th birthday celebration in the garden of Buckingham Palace. The move, which insiders describe as a “deliberate snub”, has fuelled speculation about underlying tensions between the two royal figures.
The Duchess of Kent, who has largely stepped back from public royal duties in recent years, is known for her quiet dignity and dedication to her charitable work. Her 90th birthday marks a milestone that the royal family was expected to celebrate in unity. However, Camilla’s exclusion from the guest list has turned the event into a source of controversy.
According to royal sources, the Duchess personally made the decision to exclude Camilla, citing unresolved differences dating back years. While the exact reasons are unclear, sources close to the Duchess hint that there are long-standing disagreements over the Duchess’ views on Camilla’s role in the royal family, particularly following her marriage to King Charles III.
“The Duchess of Kent has always been protective of the traditions and values of the Royal Family,” a source close to the family revealed. “She has strong opinions on certain issues, and this decision reflects her stance on matters that have been brewing for years.”
Camilla, who became queen consort after Charles ascended to the throne, has faced mixed reactions from both the public and members of the royal family. While she has worked tirelessly to carve out a role for herself within the monarchy, some senior royals have struggled to fully accept her. The Duchess of Kent’s decision appears to be the latest manifestation of these lingering divisions.
Buckingham Palace has declined to comment, stressing that the event is a private family gathering. However, the exclusion of a reigning queen consort from such an important occasion is unprecedented and has sparked widespread speculation among royal watchers.
Public opinion is equally divided. Some see the duchess’ decision as a bold assertion of her principles, while others criticise it as an unnecessary snub that could deepen divisions within the family. On social media, the hashtag #RoyalDrama began trending shortly after news of the ban broke, with many debating the implications for royal unity.
Despite the controversy, the Duchess’ celebration is expected to go down in grand style, with a host of high-profile guests from the royal family and around the world in attendance. The event will include a lavish garden party, musical performances and tributes to her decades of service to the crown.
As for Camilla, sources close to the Queen Consort suggest she is taking the snub in stride. “She is focused on her duties and will not allow this to overshadow her work,” said a royal aide.
The Duchess of Kent’s decision to ban Camilla from attending her 90th birthday party adds a new chapter to the complex dynamics of the royal family. While the celebration will undoubtedly honor the Duchess’s remarkable legacy, it also serves as a reminder that even within the monarchy, personal relationships can be fraught with tension and drama.
