Harry Quits Own Charity Amid Internal Turmoil
Prince Harry has officially stepped back from Sentebale, the organization he co-founded in 2006, marking a significant turning point in his public service career. The news that Harry quits his own charity has sparked concern and confusion, as the move follows a bitter feud between board members and the chairwoman.
The Duke of Sussex and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho launched Sentebale nearly two decades ago to support children affected by HIV/AIDS in southern Africa. However, governance conflicts have led to their resignations, prompting an active investigation by the Charity Commission.
Breakdown That Made Harry Quit His Own Charity
The internal collapse at Sentebale began when tensions between newly appointed chairwoman Dr. Sophie Chandauka and the board of trustees escalated. Trustees, including Harry’s friend Mark Dyer, pushed for her removal, citing leadership concerns. Dr. Chandauka responded by filing a lawsuit to retain her role.
In a joint statement, Harry and Seeiso said, “What’s transpired is unthinkable.” They emphasized the need to protect the charity’s mission, even as Harry quits his own charity amid the breakdown. The statement described the resignation as a step taken in solidarity with the outgoing board.
Legal Battle Overshadows Charity’s Work
The dispute led to multiple resignations, with the board stepping down entirely after failing to resolve the leadership clash. The princes claim they resigned to avoid further damage to Sentebale’s mission, though Harry quitting his own charity was not a decision made lightly.
The Charity Commission confirmed it is assessing governance concerns and will determine whether regulatory action is required. The organization’s future is now under scrutiny, as it attempts to recover from the fallout.
Harry Quits Own Charity But Vows Lifelong Support
Despite stepping down, Harry expressed that his connection to Sentebale remains. “We will always be its founders,” he stated, signaling long-term support despite no longer being a patron. He reaffirmed the importance of protecting Sentebale’s beneficiaries as his top concern.
Prince Harry originally founded the charity following a transformative trip to Lesotho during his gap year. It was intended to carry on Princess Diana’s legacy of advocacy for those affected by AIDS.
Former Chair Defends Herself Amid Accusations
Dr. Chandauka released her own statement, defending her role and refuting claims made by the trustees. She cited systemic issues including abuse of power and harassment, insisting her leadership was principled and committed to reform.
She stated, “This is not a vanity project I can walk away from,” signaling her intention to remain in her position. Meanwhile, she criticized what she described as an effort to sideline her by those unwilling to accept accountability.
Questions Loom Over Charity’s Future
While Sentebale issued a statement denying it had received official notice that Harry quit his own charity, restructuring of the board is already underway. The charity said it is bringing in new leadership with the experience to navigate the crisis.
Still, Harry’s resignation, given the public goodwill he brought to the organization, has created a leadership vacuum that may be difficult to fill.
He has raised tens of millions through polo matches and public appearances over the past decade. As Harry quits his own charity, questions remain over who will step up to preserve Sentebale’s mission moving forward.
