Prince Harry Resigns from Sentebale Amidst Charity Controversy and Boardroom Turmoil
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, has announced his departure from Sentebale, the charity he co-founded, following a significant internal dispute. This development comes amidst a backdrop of ‘unthinkable’ controversy and accusations of serious misconduct leveled by the charity’s chair against other board members.
Sentebale’s Mission and Background
Established in 2006 by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, Sentebale is dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and young people in Lesotho and Botswana. The organization focuses on addressing poverty, HIV/AIDS, and related challenges in the region. Prince Harry has been actively involved in the charity’s work, including visits to Africa and attending fundraising events. Sentebale was founded as a tribute to Prince Harry’s late mother, Princess Diana.
Breakdown in Relations and Prince Harry’s Departure
Prince Harry’s resignation follows a complete breakdown in the relationship between the charity’s trustees and the board chair, Dr. Sophie Chandauka. This irreparable rift created an ‘untenable situation’, prompting Harry to step down in solidarity with the trustees and his co-founder.
Chairperson’s Appointment and Subsequent Dispute
Dr. Sophie Chandauka, a lawyer with Zimbabwean heritage, was appointed as chair of the board of trustees last year. Reports indicate that the trustees were strongly opposed to her appointment and sought her removal, which allegedly led Dr. Chandauka to initiate legal action.
Fundraising Relocation and Staff Departures
Sources suggest the conflict originated from a decision to relocate Sentebale’s fundraising operations to Africa. This decision reportedly led to the departure of several key individuals from the organization.
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Chair’s Explosive Allegations
In a statement released to the media, Dr. Chandauka made serious allegations of a ‘cover up’ within Sentebale. She cited ‘weak executive management, abuse of power, bullying, harassment, misogyny, and misogynoir’ as critical issues. Dr. Chandauka also criticized individuals who she claimed act as if they are ‘above the law and mistreat people’.
Dr. Chandauka Defends Her Actions
Dr. Chandauka defended her position, stating this was not a ‘vanity project’ for her. She emphasized her African heritage and commitment to standing up for those without a voice. ‘I will not be intimidated. I must stand for something. I stand for those other women who do not have the ways and means,’ she declared.
Focus on Integrity and Mission
Dr. Chandauka asserted her motivations were rooted in upholding the ‘integrity of the organisation, its mission, and the young people we serve’. She affirmed her actions were guided by ‘fairness and equitable treatment for all’.
Accusations of Victimhood and Media Manipulation
Dr. Chandauka accused unnamed individuals of behaving unlawfully, mistreating others, and then ‘playing the victim card’ while manipulating the press to discredit those who challenge them. She questioned why she would report trustees to the Charity Commission and why the High Court would consider her case if it lacked merit, suggesting she was a whistleblower exposing wrongdoing.
Prince Harry’s Support for Trustees
Prince Harry issued a statement supporting the trustees, affirming they ‘acted in the best interest’ by requesting Dr. Chandauka’s resignation.
Joint Statement from Founding Patrons
In a prior joint statement, reportedly seen by The Times, Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso expressed their dismay, describing the situation as ‘unthinkable’ and ‘shocking’. They highlighted Sentebale’s nearly 20-year history, founded in memory of their mothers. They emphasized Sentebale’s name, meaning ‘forget-me-not’, represented their enduring commitment to the young people the charity serves.
Resignation in Solidarity
The joint statement announced their resignation as patrons ‘until further notice’ in ‘support of and solidarity with the board of trustees’. They lamented the irreparable breakdown in relations between the trustees and the chair,