Prince Harry Resigns from Sentebale Amid Racism and Misogyny Allegations.
Prince Harry Resigns From Sentebale Amid Controversy.
Prince Harry has announced his resignation from the charity Sentebale, co-founded with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in 2006, following a shocking internal dispute. The charity, dedicated to supporting African orphans and tackling issues such as poverty and AIDS in Lesotho and Botswana, was embroiled in a heated row between its board of trustees and chairwoman, Dr. Sophie Chandauka. This breakdown in relations has led to several resignations from the board, including Harry’s, in solidarity with the trustees.
Sentebale, which was established in memory of Prince Harry’s late mother, Princess Diana, was at the center of an unexpected storm following the departure of key figures, including Harry. The royal had attended events in Africa and New York to support Sentebale’s mission but ultimately resigned after a severe dispute that rendered the situation "untenable."
Dr. Sophie Chandauka MBE
Dispute with Dr. Sophie Chandauka Leads to Legal Action
Dr. Sophie Chandauka, the charity’s Zimbabwe-born chairwoman, who was appointed in 2024, has publicly responded to the controversy with a sensational statement accusing her colleagues of misconduct. According to reports, the trustees were unhappy with her leadership decisions, particularly regarding the relocation of fundraising efforts to Africa, and called for her resignation. When this was rejected, Dr. Chandauka initiated a lawsuit, further escalating the situation.
The chairwoman's statement was nothing short of explosive, accusing colleagues of "bullying, harassment, misogyny, and misogynoir"—a term describing discrimination against Black women. She also alleged a “cover-up” within the charity and slammed the board for mistreating those who challenged them. Her claims raise important questions around governance, discrimination, and workplace conduct within nonprofit organizations.
Dr. Sophie Chandauka MBE
Allegations of Abuse of Power and Bullying Within the Charity
Dr. Chandauka’s accusations of "weak executive management" and "abuse of power" paint a picture of a deeply troubled organization. The serious allegations of bullying, harassment, and misogynoir have sparked debates on how such behavior can be addressed within charitable organizations and could lead to legal ramifications for those involved.
Dr. Chandauka emphasized that she would not step down, despite the pressure, and positioned herself as a whistleblower against a system of corruption. Her bold decision to go public with these claims could have far-reaching consequences, especially in the context of whistleblower protections and workplace laws.
Prince Harry and Sentebale's Response: A Staggering Decision to Resign
In an unprecedented move, Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho expressed their shock and heartbreak over the situation, announcing their resignation from their roles as patrons of the charity. They cited a complete breakdown in trust and relations with Dr. Chandauka, noting that their decision to step down was "unthinkable."
The royal duo, who founded Sentebale nearly two decades ago, made their decision in solidarity with the trustees who had also resigned. They emphasized the deeply personal connection they felt to the organization, which was established to honor their mothers' legacies. Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso's resignation is a significant moment, one that further intensifies the legal and reputational issues faced by the charity.
Legal and Reputational Impact: What Happens Next for Sentebale?
The crisis at Sentebale has placed the charity in a precarious position, with a series of resignations and ongoing legal battles threatening its future. In a joint statement, the former trustees explained that the decision to leave the charity was not made lightly but was necessary due to the unresolvable breakdown in governance. They raised concerns about the legal and financial burden imposed on Sentebale by Dr. Chandauka’s lawsuit, which prevented a vote on her resignation.
The charity now faces intense scrutiny, with the Charity Commission confirming it is investigating governance concerns. Further, Richard Miller, the charity's chief executive, resigned shortly before the trustees, citing similar issues. This ongoing turmoil has prompted Sentebale to restructure its leadership and refocus its mission. However, the damage caused by these resignations and the subsequent public backlash may take years to heal.
The Future of Sentebale: Will the Charity Overcome This Crisis?
The ongoing governance crisis at Sentebale highlights the challenges charities face when internal disputes spiral out of control. With the loss of key figures and increasing legal concerns, the charity will need to undergo significant restructuring to regain public confidence and continue its vital work in Southern Africa.
Sentebale's board restructuring, which took place on March 25, 2025, is part of a broader strategy to refocus on its mission in Southern Africa, addressing health, wealth, and climate resilience issues for young people. The charity’s leadership must now navigate these challenges while maintaining its core objective of helping those in need. However, with the ongoing legal battles and the resignation of major figures, only time will tell whether Sentebale can recover and continue its mission to improve lives in Lesotho and Botswana.
A Devastating Turn for Sentebale’s Legacy
The resignation of Prince Harry and key figures from Sentebale marks a devastating turn for the charity, which has been at the forefront of tackling critical issues in Southern Africa. The leadership disputes and the allegations of misconduct within the charity have not only raised serious questions about governance but also placed the charity's future in jeopardy.
As the Charity Commission continues its investigation, the future of Sentebale remains uncertain. However, with efforts to restructure the organization and refocus its mission, there may still be hope for recovery. The public, donors, and supporters of Sentebale will be watching closely as the charity navigates this challenging period.
