Britain’s Charity Commission has launched an investigation into Sentebale, a charity co-founded by Prince Harry, following a wave of internal turmoil. The move comes a week after Prince Harry and the charity’s board of trustees resigned, citing an irreparable rift with the organization’s chairwoman, Sophie Chandauka. The regulator stated its aim is to determine whether both current and former trustees, including Chandauka, fulfilled their legal responsibilities under charity law.
Accusations Against Prince Harry Intensify Charity Rift Amid Allegations of Misconduct and Mismanagement
The tensions came to light after Chandauka publicly accused Prince Harry of orchestrating a campaign of bullying and harassment intended to oust her from her role. She claimed that the prince’s involvement in filming his Netflix project clashed with a major fundraising event and cited a related incident involving Meghan Markle as a source of added friction. These allegations, including claims of sexism and racism made against unnamed board members, have deepened the controversy surrounding the charity.
Prince Harry’s Resignation Triggers Charity Probe as Sentebale Faces Turmoil, Misconduct Claims, and Leadership CrisisPrince Harry, who co-founded Sentebale nearly two decades ago in honor of his late mother Princess Diana, expressed sadness over the dispute, stating that the real victims are the young people the charity aims to serve. He said he hoped the Charity Commission’s investigation would reveal the truth behind his resignation and the ongoing conflict. Despite his role as co-founder, Harry, along with co-founder Prince Seeiso, was not a trustee but served as a patron until stepping down to support the former board members.
Governance Concerns and Investigation Cast Uncertainty Over Sentebale’s Future and Leadership Stability
Chandauka revealed that she had already flagged various governance and administrative issues to the Charity Commission earlier in the year. Sentebale also began conducting its own internal review in 2023. Chandauka welcomed the regulator’s intervention, stating it was a necessary step to restore public confidence in the charity’s leadership and operations. She emphasized the importance of rebuilding a healthy organizational culture moving forward.
The ongoing dispute and the resulting investigation raise concerns about the future of Sentebale and its mission to support vulnerable youth in Botswana and Lesotho. The controversy has not only damaged the charity’s public image but also threatens donor trust. As the Charity Commission continues its inquiry, both sides appear determined to defend their actions, leaving the charity’s supporters and beneficiaries in a state of uncertainty. The findings of the probe are expected to shape Sentebale’s governance and public perception in the long term.