Prince William: His speech sheds light on his future leadership style

Prince William has been in the public eye since childhood and has since been groomed for his role as future king. An extraordinary moment during his trip to the Caribbean with wife Catherine gives a taste of what he might do in the role.

Prince William, 39, and Duchess Catherine, 40, are media professionals through and through. On her eight-day journey from March 19 to 26, 2022 through the Caribbean, every step and every word is planned down to the last detail. Last but not least, the 15-strong team of consultants, assistants and stylists that accompanies the royal couple ensures this. Nevertheless, there are situations on their trip for which the Cambridges are heavily criticized.

Prince William surprises with unusual speech

However, the fact that the heir to the throne has his heart in the right place and knows what is expected of him as a role model for a younger generation was demonstrated in a speech he gave shortly before his departure. In it he suggested unusually honest tones for the British Royals, who always act according to the motto “Never complain, never explain”.

While the 39-year-old made it clear how unhappy he was at the criticism leveled at him and his wife for their missteps during the trip abroad, he also offered a glimpse of what kind of king the people can expect in the future. Because publicly admitting a mistake and thus bypassing royal protocol is not only extremely rare for a royal, it also shows greatness. But that’s exactly what Prince William did, making it clear that he’s willing to learn from his mistakes.

A picture causes severe criticism

His slightly offended tone seems justified, especially given that some commentators, including the BBC’s Royal Correspondent, seem to blame the couple themselves for the awkward photo moments and misinterpretation of postcolonial issues today.

One picture in particular caused a lot of conversation: Prince William and Duchess Catherine can be seen greeting some Jamaican fans who reach out to them through a chain link fence. The accusation: The two royals should have known what a frightening picture this would convey.

Prince William appears injured

It is quite unusual for a royal to make a public statement at the end of a tour. Perhaps William and Kate wanted to show how hurt they are at being accused of things they don’t see themselves as responsible for.