The British royal family found itself back in the headlines as it stepped out for the annual Commonwealth Day service. King Charles III arrived at Westminster Abbey in London on Monday wearing a calm smile. Outside the historic church, however, the mood was far louder and more confrontational.
As the monarch arrived at the annual event, a small but vocal group of protesters began shouting 'Charles, what do you now?' while holding bright yellow placards with messages such as 'Not my king' and 'Abolish the monarchy.' Their chants carried across the square as members of the royal family moved through the crowds and into the abbey.
The King, Queen Camilla, Prince William and Kate Middleton kept their composure as they greeted church officials and well wishers. Even so, the protest was a reminder that anger over Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and his ties to Jeffrey Epstein continues to shadow the royal household.
The anti monarchy group gathered close to Westminster Abbey as the royal family arrived for the Commonwealth Day service, one of the largest events on the royal calendar.
According toABC News, protesters welcomed the royal family with booing while holding signs calling for the monarchy to be scrapped while chanting slogans aimed directly at the King. Some shouted 'Not my king,' a phrase that has become a familiar rallying cry among critics of the monarchy.
The demonstration also revived uncomfortable questions surrounding Prince Andrew. The Duke of York faced worldwide scrutiny over his past friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and later settled a civil lawsuit linked to the scandal in 2022.
Andrew did not attend the service, yet critics still connect the controversy with wider frustration toward the royal institution.
The protest remained peaceful, although the chants were clearly audible as the royal family walked into the abbey. Despite the noise outside, the King and other senior royals carried on with the ceremony and did not respond publicly.
More than 1,800 guests attended the service, including Geri Halliwell-Horner from the pop group Spice Girls and dancer Oti Mabuse from the television show Strictly Come Dancing. The programme traditionally includes readings, prayer, music and dance.
Inside Westminster Abbey, the atmosphere felt very different from the tension outside the gates.
Source: International Business Times UK
