LONDON — Sophie Chandauka, chair of the charity Sentebale co-founded by Prince Harry, has made serious allegations against him. She claims that he has been bullying her to force her out of her position after he unexpectedly stepped down as a patron of the organization.
Chandauka discussed these issues during an interview on Sky News, outlining how Harry’s Netflix deal disrupted a planned fundraiser. She also mentioned a problematic moment involving Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, that created tension.
Prince Harry and his co-founder, Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, announced their departures with a heavy heart, stating that their relationship with the charity’s board had deteriorated beyond repair. They expressed support for the trustees amid ongoing disputes with Chandauka, emphasizing the difficult situation.
In response to this conflict, Chandauka has taken legal steps. She reported the trustees to the Charity Commission in the U.K. and filed court documents to prevent her removal from the charity. She claims to have witnessed misconduct within the organization, including allegations of "abuse of power, bullying, and misogyny."
“This whole experience blindsided me; it’s a significant example of bullying,” Chandauka said. She has suggested that Harry’s departure is part of a wider cover-up, which she believes includes interference in her whistleblower complaint.
Chandauka also observed a notable decline in donations since Harry and Meghan renounced their royal duties in January 2020. Initially created to support youths affected by AIDS in Lesotho and Botswana, Sentebale is now shifting its focus to broader issues like health, wealth, and climate resilience for young people in southern Africa. However, she pointed out that the charity faces challenges due to the negative perception surrounding its notable patrons, claiming that this “toxicity” poses a significant risk.
A source close to the charity disputed Chandauka’s claims. This person clarified that Harry and Seeiso had formally communicated their resignation weeks prior to the public announcement and suggested that Chandauka anticipated this kind of response.
One incident highlighted by Chandauka involved a polo fundraiser in Miami that nearly fell apart due to Harry wanting to bring a film crew. The cost skyrocketed, and they struggled to secure an alternative venue. A surprising moment occurred when Meghan joined the event, leading to an awkward trophy presentation where Chandauka felt sidelined.
Social media reactions have varied, with some defending Chandauka while others find the situation concerning. Public discussions have arisen around the implications of celebrity influence in charitable organizations. The charity estimations show that public figures’ involvement can often sway donor perception, making this situation even more complex.
As this controversy continues to unfold, it raises questions about the challenges charities face amidst the dynamics of celebrity, governance, and public scrutiny. The backlash against high-profile figures in charities isn’t unique; historical instances show how similar disputes have affected organizations in the past. For now, the future of Sentebale and its mission remains uncertain as the trustees and Chandauka navigate these turbulent waters.
For more detailed insights into the challenges faced by charitable organizations, you can refer to Charity Commission Guidelines.
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