Prince Harry Resigns from Sentebale Amid Internal Turmoil and Allegations
Prince Harry has resigned from Sentebale, the African charity he co-founded, due to internal conflicts and allegations of misconduct involving its chairwoman. Alongside Prince Seeiso, he expressed shock over the situation and reaffirmed support for the departing trustees. Sentebale continues to address health issues among youth in Lesotho and Botswana, fulfilling a legacy linked to Princess Diana.
Prince Harry has recently resigned as a patron of Sentebale, an African charity he co-founded to honor his late mother, Princess Diana. His resignation was prompted by a breakdown in relationships among board members, particularly with chairwoman Sophie Chandauka. The announcement came as allegations of bullying, harassment, sexism, and racism surfaced against unnamed board members, sparking controversy within the organization.
In a joint statement with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, Harry expressed shock over the charity’s internal turmoil, where the trustees had sought to remove Chandauka, who resisted and took legal action. Harry and Seeiso emphasized their support for the trustees, who resigned in what they described as a devastating situation, stating, “What’s transpired is unthinkable.”
Chandauka, a corporate lawyer from Zimbabwe, accused board members of poor governance and a cover-up regarding these serious allegations. While some of the resigned trustees, including Mark Dyer, have responded publicly, rejecting the claims, Chandauka reported her accusations to the U.K.’s Charity Commission. However, Sentebale has not disclosed specific details about the allegations.
Founded in 2006, Sentebale aims to assist young people affected by HIV/AIDS in Lesotho and Botswana. Following traditions established by Princess Diana, the charity provides healthcare, education, and vocational training. Recently, it expanded its mission to include youth health and climate resilience initiatives. Prince Harry’s commitment to the charity was evident during his last visit in October, where he engaged with young advocates and was honored by Lesotho’s Prime Minister as a cherished figure in the region.
In conclusion, Prince Harry’s resignation from Sentebale highlights a significant internal crisis within the charity, fueled by alarming allegations and a dispute with its chairwoman. The situation has caused turmoil among the trustees, who support the charity’s mission derived from their respective familial legacies. The future of Sentebale may now hinge on resolving these allegations and the leadership structure moving forward.
Original Source: apnews.com
