Sentebale Charity Faces Scrutiny Amid Prince Harry's Exit and Trustee Resignations
Prince Harry’s charity Sentebale faces resignations, scandal, and a UK investigation. Find out what’s behind the royal charity’s internal shake-up.
Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso Stepped Down From Sentebale
Prince Harry’s well-known charity, Sentebale, is currently under investigation by the UK’s Charity Commission, following the unexpected and controversial departure of its co-founders — Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso. Reports suggest both royals were “forced to resign,” raising concerns about the internal workings of the nonprofit organization.
Another Trustee Resigns Quietly: Nerissa Naidu Steps Down
Just weeks after the co-founders’ departure, South African business leader Nerissa Naidu, who had only joined the board on March 25, has also resigned from Sentebale. Unlike previous exits, Naidu’s resignation appeared to be on good terms. A spokesperson for the charity stated that she “chose to step down out of respect for her other professional commitments” and expressed gratitude for her “tremendous support.”
Trustee Numbers Shrink As Resignations Continue
Naidu’s departure follows the earlier resignation of Dr. Margaret Ikpoh, reducing the board to just three remaining trustees:
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Iain Rawlinson
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Dr. Bhakti Hansoti
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Dr. Sophie Chandauka
Dr. Chandauka, still a trustee, has publicly raised serious allegations against Sentebale, claiming the charity has been plagued by a toxic internal culture.
Whistleblower Speaks Out: Accusations of Misconduct Surface
In an interview with The Times, Dr. Chandauka alleged a disturbing pattern of behavior within the organization, including:
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Abuse of power
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Bullying and harassment
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Misogyny and misogynoir
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Organizational cover-ups
“These are not just baseless claims,” she insisted. “This is the story of a woman who dared to blow the whistle amidst a narrative full of denial.”
Prince Harry Responds: “These Are Blatant Lies”
In response, Prince Harry released a firm statement on April 3, denying the allegations. He described them as “blatant lies” and said the recent controversies have been “heartbreaking” for all who have dedicated years to the charity’s mission.
“What has transpired over the last week has been heartbreaking to witness,” Harry said. “Especially when such blatant lies hurt those who have invested decades in this shared goal.”
Charity Commission Launches Investigation Into Sentebale
The UK Charity Commission has now launched an official inquiry into Sentebale’s operations. Prince Harry has welcomed the investigation, expressing hope that it will uncover the truth behind the wave of departures.
“We fully expect it will unveil the truth that collectively forced us to resign,” he said.
Sentebale’s Mission and Legacy Under Threat
Founded by Prince Harry in 2006, Sentebale was established to honor Princess Diana’s humanitarian legacy and provide support for vulnerable youth affected by HIV and poverty in Southern Africa. The charity has long been a cornerstone of Harry’s philanthropic work, making the current controversy especially troubling for royal watchers and supporters alike.
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