In a fiery address that has reverberated around the globe, Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez has taken aim at Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, for her extravagant fashion choices during a recent visit to Colombia.

The vice president’s remarks have ignited a fierce debate about wealth disparity and the responsibilities of public figures in the face of poverty.

The controversy erupted when Meghan appeared in a striking navy blue Veronica Beard summer suit, complete with tailored trousers and a matching waistcoat.

Her look was accessorized with a Loro Piana loom white handbag, which is valued at an eye-watering €120,000.

To top it off, she wore Manolo Blahnik court shoes, a brand she frequently favors.

Márquez did not mince words as she criticized Meghan’s sartorial choices, declaring, “It is an absolute disgrace that the Duchess of Sussex would flaunt such extravagance in a country where the majority of the population lives in poverty.”

Her comments struck a chord, highlighting the stark contrast between the duchess’s opulence and the everyday struggles faced by many Colombians.

The vice president continued to voice her discontent, suggesting that Meghan’s display of wealth was a glaring reminder of the inequalities that plague the nation.

“The Duchess has come to our nation purporting to champion the cause of the less fortunate, yet she surrounds herself with the trappings of the elite.

This is the height of hypocrisy,” Márquez asserted, her disdain palpable.

In response to the backlash, Meghan’s representatives quickly issued a statement defending her actions.

They emphasized that the duchess is genuinely committed to making a positive impact where she travels, asserting that her wardrobe choices do not reflect her wealth or status.

They insisted that she aims to balance her personal style with her public responsibilities.

Despite this defense, public sentiment in Colombia has not shifted significantly.

Many citizens took to social media to express their disappointment, feeling that Meghan’s wardrobe was out of touch with the harsh realities they face daily.

This incident is not isolated; it echoes previous criticisms directed at Meghan during royal tours.

Back in 2019, during a trip to South Africa, she faced backlash for donning a €13,500 Valentino dress at a formal event, which many deemed inappropriate given the country’s economic challenges.

Similarly, in 2018, her choice of designer outfits while visiting disaster-stricken areas in Australia and New Zealand drew ire, further cementing the perception that she is disconnected from ordinary people’s struggles.

The fallout from this latest incident has sparked broader discussions about the royal family’s role in a world rife with inequality.

Critics argue that Meghan’s actions undermine the monarchy’s efforts to position itself as a force for good.

Dr. Amelia Hatfield, a political scientist specializing in royal affairs, noted that the royal family must be acutely aware of how their actions are perceived, particularly in impoverished nations.

Hatfield remarked that Meghan’s choice of outfit was not only insensitive but also failed to acknowledge the serious issues facing the Colombian populace.

This sentiment resonates with a growing chorus of commentators advocating for a more empathetic and grounded approach from the royal family.

As the dust settles on this controversy, there is a consensus emerging that both Meghan and the royal family need to address the perceptions of elitism that have plagued their public image.

This incident presents an opportunity for the duchess to reflect on her actions and recommit to the values of compassion and service that should underpin her role.

By adopting a more relatable and humble demeanor, Meghan could begin to mend the rift between herself and the communities she wishes to engage with.

Ultimately, the path forward hinges on her willingness to learn from this experience and to actively work towards bridging the gap between the royal family and the everyday realities faced by people around the world.