Importance Score: 83 / 100 🟢
Sentebale Chairwoman Criticizes Harry and Meghan, Citing ‘Toxic’ Brand Impact on HIV Charity
The leader of Sentebale, an African charity focused on aiding children affected by HIV, has delivered a sharp condemnation of Prince Harry and Meghan, labeling their public image as “toxic.” Dr. Sophie Chandauka, the chairwoman of the organization co-founded by the Duke of Sussex, voiced strong concerns in a recent interview, claiming tensions emerged between herself and Prince Harry a year prior. This development unfolds amidst ongoing governance challenges at the charity, impacting fundraising and operations.
Sentebale Chairwoman’s Allegations Against Sussexes
Refusal to Defend Meghan Markle
Dr. Chandauka revealed that Prince Harry’s team requested she publicly defend Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, against negative press coverage. She declined this request, a decision that seemingly marked a turning point in their relationship.
‘Toxic Brand’ Hindering Charity
According to Dr. Chandauka, the “toxicity” of the Sussexes’ brand has negatively impacted Sentebale. She asserted that controversies surrounding Prince Harry’s public profile since relocating to the United States have complicated the charity’s efforts to broaden its donor base and recruit high-level personnel.
“During the interview process for senior positions, candidates raised concerns about the ‘mixed messages’ associated with the patron,” Dr. Chandauka stated.
Prince Harry’s Departure and Trustee Resignations
Solidarity Resignation
Prince Harry recently resigned from Sentebale, reportedly in “solidarity” with disgruntled trustees. These trustees allegedly resigned due to irreparable discord with Dr. Chandauka, stemming from her refusal to step down at their request. This exodus of leadership underscores the deepening rift within the charity.
Accusations of Sabotage
Dr. Chandauka further accused Prince Harry and co-founder Prince Seeiso of Lesotho of attempting to “force a failure” of Sentebale, only to then intervene as saviors. This allegation adds another layer of complexity to the escalating controversy.
Dr. Chandauka Defends Her Leadership
‘Sentebale Will Live On’
In her first public statements since the dispute surfaced, Dr. Chandauka passionately defended her performance as chairwoman. Directly addressing Prince Harry, she declared, “The team is determined that Sentebale will endure, with or without you.”
Charity’s Statement on ‘Victim Card’
Sentebale issued a strongly worded statement last week, emphasizing that “people in the field” are more crucial than trustees. The statement further alluded to individuals who “behave as though they are above the law,” “mistreat people,” and then “play the victim card,” utilizing the media they criticize to harm those who challenge them.
Reactions and Aftermath
Prince Harry ‘Reeling’
While Prince Harry has remained publicly silent on these claims, sources close to him suggest he is deeply affected by the unfolding situation. One source described the damage as significant, regardless of fault, stating, “He’ll be reeling.”
Sentebale’s Commitment to Mission
Despite the turmoil, Sentebale has reaffirmed its dedication to supporting young people in southern Africa. The charity emphasized its continued operations despite Prince Harry’s withdrawal in protest of what he deemed Dr. Chandauka’s “untenable” actions.
Allegations of Racism, Sexism, and Bullying
Dr. Chandauka has levied serious accusations against Sentebale and its trustees, including allegations of racism, sexism, and bullying. She argued that Sentebale’s organizational structure, established in 2006, is “no longer appropriate in a post-Black Lives Matter world,” and that trustees resisted necessary changes. These claims paint a picture of deep-seated institutional challenges.
Legal Challenge and Charity Commission Involvement
High Court Dispute
Sources indicate that after trustees formally requested Dr. Chandauka’s resignation, and subsequently attempted to force a vote, she initiated a legal challenge in the High Court to halt their meeting. While official court records are unclear, it is reported that an injunction was not granted and the meeting was ultimately cancelled, rendering further court action unnecessary at that time.
Charity Commission Assessment
The Charity Commission has confirmed its awareness of governance concerns at Sentebale and is currently assessing the situation to determine appropriate regulatory actions. This intervention from the regulatory body highlights the seriousness of the allegations and the potential implications for the charity’s future.
Conflicting Accounts of the Dispute’s Origins
Divergent Perspectives on Tensions
Dr. Chandauka stated that she first perceived friction with Prince Harry in April 2024. However, other sources maintain that the dispute is rooted in substantive issues and not personal animosity. These sources suggest trustees attempted private negotiations, requesting Dr. Chandauka reconsider her position due to a “lack of trust and confidence” in her leadership.
Lawyers Cite Breakdown in Relations
Legal representatives for Prince Harry have acknowledged a breakdown in relations between Dr. Chandauka and key stakeholders, including staff, trustees, and major donors, further corroborating the existence of serious internal conflict.
Denials of Misconduct and Differing Accounts
Trustee Denials
Kelello Lerotholi, a former trustee, refuted Dr. Chandauka’s allegations of racism and bullying, asserting he witnessed no indication of such behavior during his tenure. Similarly, Baroness Lynda Chalker of Wallasey, a long-serving former trustee, characterized Dr. Chandauka’s leadership style as “almost dictatorial,” contributing to internal clashes. These counter-narratives underscore the contested nature of the events.
Dr. Chandauka’s Stance
Dr. Chandauka firmly denies being a bully and insists she experienced “disrespect, bullying and intimidation,” as well as “misogyny and misogynoir.” She emphasizes her commitment to transforming the charity and refuses to resign, stating, “I am an African who has had the privilege of a world class education and career. I will not be intimidated. I must stand for something.”
Ongoing Investigation and Call for Factual Account
As the Charity Commission proceeds with its assessment, a source close to Prince Harry emphasized the sensitivity of the situation and urged a focus on allowing “the facts [to] play out” through the official investigation process. Sentebale and representatives for the Sussexes have been contacted for comment, but have yet to issue further statements at the time of this report. The situation remains fluid as stakeholders await the findings of the Charity Commission and potential further developments within Sentebale.