Prince Harry has expressed hope that a Charity Commission investigation into Sentebale, the organization he co-founded in 2006 to support children affected by HIV/AIDS in southern Africa, will reveal the “truth” amid a bitter governance dispute. The probe follows claims by Sentebale’s chair, Sophie Chandauka, who alleges issues of bullying, harassment, and mismanagement.
Harry described recent events as “heartbreaking,” condemning “blatant lies” harming longtime supporters. The inquiry comes after an irreparable boardroom rift led to Harry, co-founder Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, and other trustees resigning last week. The Duke of Sussex stated the former trustees anticipate a “robust inquiry” to clarify the circumstances forcing their exits, adding they hope the charity is swiftly stabilized for beneficiaries’ sake.
The Charity Commission confirmed it is assessing compliance with legal duties, engaging parties involved. Chandauka, who welcomed the scrutiny, had previously accused trustees of misconduct, including racism and sexism. She asserts the new board prioritizes transparency and governance.
Financial disputes also surfaced, with sources claiming £500,000 was spent on U.S. consultants for a fundraising strategy deemed ineffective. Sentebale denied the figure, defending its partnership with firm Lebec as critical to establishing donor networks. The charity noted Harry’s £1.2m donation from his memoir *Spare* aided operations but stressed the need for sustainable funding.
Tensions grew personal, with Chandauka citing Harry’s public image as a reputational risk and alleging friction during a 2023 polo fundraiser involving Meghan. Sources close to the couple denied conflict, stating video evidence shows Meghan assisting with event logistics.
Sentebale affirmed its focus remains on delivering services while navigating the fallout. Chandauka emphasized commitment to “recalibrating for an ambitious future,” despite the turmoil. The Charity Commission’s findings could determine the charity’s path forward as it balances internal accountability and its humanitarian mission.
