Prince Harry Steps Down As Patron Of Southern Africa Charity

Prince Harry has officially resigned as patron of Sentebale, the charity he co-founded nearly two decades ago in honor of his mother, Princess Diana. The decision follows an intense boardroom conflict that has led to a major shake-up within the organization.

Founded in 2006 alongside Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, Sentebale was established to support young people affected by HIV and AIDS in Lesotho and later Botswana. However, recent tensions between the UK-registered charity’s trustees and board chair, Sophie Chandauka, have resulted in an irreparable breakdown in relations.

In a joint statement on Tuesday, Harry and Seeiso announced their resignations, citing an untenable situation. “What’s transpired is unthinkable. We are in shock that we have to do this, but we have a continued responsibility to Sentebale’s beneficiaries,” they expressed. Several trustees have already stepped down and have called for Chandauka’s resignation.

While specific details behind the fallout remain unclear, Chandauka has claimed she faced retaliation after voicing serious concerns about the charity’s governance. The Zimbabwe-born lawyer alleged she was subjected to backlash for highlighting “poor governance, weak executive management, abuse of power, bullying, harassment, misogyny, and misogynoir.”

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She insisted that stepping down was not an option for her, stating, “For me, this is not a vanity project from which I can resign when I am called to account.” Chandauka has since reported trustees to the UK’s Charity Commission and taken legal action in the High Court of London.

Harry and Seeiso accused Chandauka of taking legal measures to retain her position after trustees requested her resignation.

“It is devastating that the relationship between the charity’s trustees and the chair of the board broke down beyond repair, creating an untenable situation,” their statement read. They further revealed plans to share their concerns with the Charity Commission.

Meanwhile, the Charity Commission has confirmed awareness of the ongoing governance concerns. “We are assessing the issues to determine the appropriate regulatory steps,” the regulator stated.

For Prince Harry, this marks another significant departure from an organization close to his heart. Sentebale, which means “Forget Me Not” in Sesotho, was founded as a tribute to Princess Diana’s humanitarian legacy. While Harry and Seeiso step away, their statement emphasized their unwavering commitment to the charity’s beneficiaries.