The recent resignation of Prince Harry as patron of the charity Sentebale has sparked controversy, with Dr Sophie Chandauka, the chair of the organisation, accusing him of “harassment and bullying at scale”. Sentebale, founded in 2006 by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in memory of Harry’s mother, Diana, Princess of Wales, aims to support children affected by HIV in southern Africa.

Dr Chandauka, speaking to Trevor Phillips on Sky News, revealed that Harry had authorised the release of damaging news regarding the charity without consulting her or other key individuals within the organisation. “Can you imagine what that attack has done for me, on me and the 540 individuals in the Sentebale organisation and their family?” she stated, calling it a display of significant harassment.

The tensions between Harry and Dr Chandauka appear to have been simmering for some time, with the chair accusing Harry’s brand of being “toxic” and detrimental to the charity’s mission. She mentioned that fundraising efforts had been adversely affected, stating, “The number one risk for this organisation was the toxicity of its lead patron’s brand.” This sentiment was echoed in her remarks about the impact of mixed messaging surrounding the charity’s leadership, which has hindered their ability to attract donors and support.

Harry and Prince Seeiso’s departures from Sentebale were reportedly made to show solidarity with the charity’s trustees, who also resigned amidst internal disputes with Dr Chandauka. In their statement, they referred to a relationship that had “broken down beyond repair,” attributing the disagreements to a shift in focus towards fundraising specifically in Africa.

While discussing the internal dynamics, Dr Chandauka recounted a moment when she was asked by Harry’s team to defend Meghan Markle against any negative press, a request she declined, asserting that the charity would not act as an extension of the Sussex PR effort. She described her evolution of leadership within a contemporary framework that requires a move towards locally led initiatives, highlighting a need for governance structures that align with current social movements.

Dr Chandauka’s critiques extended to suggest that both princes attempted to “force a failure” within the charity only to later position themselves as saviours. Despite the unfolding drama, she confidently expressed that “the team is resolved that Sentebale will live on, with or without you,” addressing the future of the charity beyond its original founders.

In the backdrop of these disputes, sources close to the former trustees indicated that the resignations and subsequent public statements were expected, describing them as part of a larger narrative. A representative from the Charity Commission confirmed awareness of the governance concerns at Sentebale and is assessing the situation to determine necessary regulatory steps.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have not publicly responded to the allegations made by Dr Chandauka, and sources close to him remarked on the substantial impact this situation could have on his reputation and legacy in relation to the charity. As the organisation navigates these significant challenges, it continues its mission to support vulnerable children in the region, with or without the participation of its royal co-founders.

Source: Noah Wire Services