Tensions between Prince Harry and the Sentebale charity have escalated following a series of public and private disputes, leading to a damaging fallout.
Dr. Sophie Chandauka, the chair of Sentebale, has made significant allegations against the Duke of Sussex, claiming that his actions, including attempts to bring his Netflix camera crew to charity events, have hurt the organization’s reputation and ability to raise funds.
She has accused him of “harassment and bullying at scale,” a claim that has prompted strong denials from Harry’s representatives.
Prince Harry’s Involvement in Charity Events Leads to Conflict
Dr. Chandauka has publicly stated that the charity lost a major event venue for the Sentebale Polo Challenge in Miami due to Prince Harry’s insistence on bringing a Netflix crew to film for his show.
She explained that when Harry made this request a month before the event, the venue owners responded by changing the terms, turning the event into a commercial undertaking that the charity could not afford.
The situation led to the loss of the venue, and Sentebale had to scramble to secure another location.
Although Harry’s connections helped, the event’s execution was not without its challenges, including an awkward on-stage situation involving Meghan Markle.
Clashes Over Charity’s Governance and Public Relations
The relationship between Dr. Chandauka and the Duke of Sussex grew increasingly strained, particularly over issues of governance and the charity’s direction.
Dr. Chandauka accused Prince Harry and fellow co-founder Prince Seeiso of Lesotho of attempting to “force a failure” of Sentebale, only to later “rescue” it.
As the tension continued to mount, Dr. Chandauka also found herself embroiled in a public spat with Meghan Markle, as the Duchess reportedly ordered her to move away from Harry during a charity event in Florida.
Accusations of Toxicity and Damage to the Charity’s Brand
In interviews, Dr. Chandauka suggested that the controversy surrounding Prince Harry’s reputation was damaging Sentebale’s ability to attract donors and senior staff.
She argued that the “toxicity” of Harry’s personal brand, particularly since his move to the U.S., had made it difficult for the charity to function smoothly and grow.
The charity faced difficulties in diversifying its donor base, and questions about the Duke’s involvement became a major point of concern among potential supporters.
Legal Challenges and Resignations From Sentebale Trustees
The ongoing dispute has resulted in the resignation of several key trustees from Sentebale, including longtime supporters of Prince Harry. Dr. Chandauka herself is facing legal challenges, having contested the board’s attempts to force her resignation.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry’s involvement in the charity has become a contentious issue, with sources close to the situation claiming that the tension between Dr. Chandauka and other trustees had reached a breaking point.
The Charity Commission has confirmed that it is investigating the governance concerns raised by both parties.
The Unraveling of Sentebale’s Leadership
In the wake of the resignations, Dr. Chandauka stood firm, refusing to step down from her position despite mounting pressure.
She defended her leadership and emphasized her commitment to transforming Sentebale into a modern, effective charity.
However, the internal strife has caused deep divisions, and many insiders have noted that the organization’s future could be at risk if the leadership issues are not resolved.
The Sussexes’ Brand and Its Impact on Sentebale’s Future
Dr. Chandauka’s statements about the impact of the Sussexes’ personal brand on Sentebale’s operations have sparked widespread debate.
She has accused Harry of undermining the charity’s work by using his celebrity status and PR machine to control the narrative around the charity.
While some close to the Prince deny the allegations, others, including former trustees, have expressed concerns about the charity’s future direction.
Harry’s Defenders and Dr. Chandauka’s Legal Actions
In the ongoing saga, Prince Harry’s supporters have pushed back against Dr. Chandauka’s claims, labeling them as baseless.
A source close to Harry suggested that the ongoing conflict is a “hugely sensitive” matter and that the public should allow the facts to unfold.
Meanwhile, Dr. Chandauka’s legal actions, including her challenge to the board’s decision to ask for her resignation, are still being reviewed by the courts, adding another layer of complexity to this already contentious situation.
The Uncertain Future of Sentebale Amidst Leadership Struggles
The charity founded in memory of Princess Diana to help Aids orphans in Southern Africa now faces an uncertain future.
While the charity has reiterated its commitment to its cause, the leadership struggle and fallout from these allegations have made it unclear whether Sentebale can continue to thrive without the involvement of its royal patron.
As investigations by the Charity Commission continue, the full extent of the damage caused by the public dispute remains to be seen.
The Sussexes Remain Silent on the Allegations
Despite the gravity of the allegations against him, Prince Harry has remained largely silent, with no official statement responding to Dr. Chandauka’s claims.
As the dispute continues to unfold, it remains unclear how this will affect the charity’s operations or the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s public image.
The charity’s supporters, meanwhile, hope that a resolution can be reached before the issues surrounding governance and leadership cause irreparable harm.