In a shocking development that has shaken the religious and political world, the British Royal Family has officially confirmed that King Charles III and Prince William will not attend the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV. The decision comes after a series of controversies related to the newly elected Pope’s past and controversial stance, leaving observers stunned.
According to a statement from Buckingham Palace, the main reason why the two heads of state of the United Kingdom refused to attend is because they “cannot agree with Leo XIV’s past statements and actions, which are contrary to universal human rights and moral values.” A source close to the Royal Family revealed that King Charles was “extremely unhappy” to learn that Leo XIV had expressed extremely conservative views on feminism, the LGBTQ+ community, and had been accused of covering up scandals in the Church in the past.
Prince William, who has campaigned for mental health and social justice, is said to have strongly objected to the royal presence at a ceremony that “legitimizes a figure who is not fit to represent the global faith.”
The Vatican’s response was equally harsh. Several senior clergy expressed “deep regret” at the decision, insisting that Leo XIV had been elected according to the College of Cardinals’ procedures, and that boycotting him was “an inappropriate interference in the internal affairs of the Catholic Church.” However, this has sparked further criticism, with many believing that the Vatican needs to be more transparent in its leadership selection process, especially at a time when religious beliefs are being challenged.
On social media, public reaction has been divided. One side has supported the decision of King Charles and Prince William, calling it a courageous act of defending moral values. The other side argues that the British Royal Family is politicizing the issue of religion and causing more division at a time when global unity is needed.
Although the specific reasons for the accusations against Pope Leo XIV have not been fully disclosed, the British Royal Family’s “no” action clearly sends a strong message: the moral authority of the head of the Church cannot be taken lightly, whether in the name of tradition or religious authority.