In a surprising turn of events, Prince Harry has announced his resignation from the African charity Sentebale, which he co-founded with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in memory of their mothers. The decision comes amid serious allegations of misconduct at the charity, including bullying, harassment, sexism, and racism, brought forth by the organization’s chairperson towards unnamed board members. Both Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso issued a joint statement expressing their decision to step down in solidarity with the trustees who resigned after a conflict with the chairperson, Sophie Chandauka.
Founded in 2006, Sentebale is dedicated to aiding young individuals in Lesotho and Botswana who have been affected by AIDS. The charity’s name, meaning “don’t forget me” in the Sesotho language, reflects its mission to honor the memories of Princess Diana and the former queen of Lesotho. Princess Diana tragically passed away in a car accident in Paris in 1997, while Prince Seeiso’s mother passed away in 2003.
Harry and Seeiso expressed their shock at the current developments, noting that the trustees had requested Chandauka’s resignation, which she refused, opting instead to take legal action to prevent her removal. The princes emphasized that the trustees acted in the best interests of Sentebale, yet the ensuing breakdown in relationships has been deeply troubling. “What’s transpired is unthinkable,” they stated.
Sophie Chandauka, a corporate lawyer from Zimbabwe, alleged that she courageously reported instances of poor governance and power abuse, along with her accusations of bullying, harassment, sexism, and racism within the charity. Her claims themselves were pointed towards the trustees without giving specific names or details. Among the trustees who stepped down was Mark Dyer, a long-time mentor to Prince Harry. Another trustee, Kelello Lerotholi, expressed surprise at the allegations, stating on Sky News that such misconduct was never visible.
Chandauka also noted that she filed a report against some board members to the U.K.’s Charity Commission, where Sentebale is officially registered. Attempts to gain further details on whom Chandauka’s allegations specifically targeted remained unanswered by a Sentebale spokesperson.
Sentebale holds a significant place in Prince Harry’s philanthropic efforts, carrying forward some of Princess Diana’s pioneering work in AIDS charity. Initially focusing on vulnerable children impacted by AIDS, the charity provides essential healthcare, educational, and vocational resources. Lesotho remains heavily affected by HIV, and Sentebale’s mission has progressively expanded to cover various aspects of youth health and climate resilience under Chandauka’s leadership. This evolution has reportedly been a source of contention among Sentebale’s leadership.
Prince Harry’s recent visit to Sentebale in Lesotho in October underscores his deep connection to the country and its people. There, he spent time conversing with young folks around a campfire, echoing the charity’s ongoing efforts to empower young advocates. Meanwhile, Lesotho’s Prime Minister Sam Matekane fondly described the country as Harry’s “second home.”