The UK Charity Commission’s investigation into Sentebale, a charity co-founded by Prince Harry, has concluded, clearing the Duke of Sussex of bullying allegations while simultaneously criticizing all parties involved in a highly publicized dispute that tarnished the organization’s reputation. The inquiry stemmed from accusations made by Sentebale’s chairperson, Sophie Chandauka, who publicly claimed that Prince Harry had engaged in bullying and harassment, ultimately leading to a boardroom upheaval and the resignation of several trustees, including Harry and his co-founder, Prince Seeiso of Lesotho.

The Charity Commission’s findings, released on Wednesday, stated unequivocally that there was no evidence of widespread or systemic bullying, harassment, misogyny, or misogynoir within Sentebale. However, the Commission expressed its disapproval of the public nature of the dispute, highlighting how the internal conflict had severely impacted the charity’s reputation. It further pointed to a lack of clarity in delegations within the organization as a contributing factor to mismanagement. Consequently, the Commission has issued Sentebale with a plan to address these governance weaknesses and prevent similar incidents in the future.

The dispute at Sentebale unfolded in late March and April 2024. Chandauka, who had been appointed chairperson in 2023, accused Harry of attempting to force her out through bullying and harassment. She cited specific instances, including Harry’s decision to bring a Netflix camera crew to the charity’s polo fundraiser in 2023 and the unplanned appearance of his wife, Meghan Markle, at the same event. These actions, she argued, were indicative of a broader pattern of unacceptable behavior. In response, Harry and Prince Seeiso resigned from their positions as trustees, further escalating the public conflict.

Prince Harry, in a statement released in April, described the events as “heartbreaking to witness,” particularly the “blatant lies” that he believed had harmed individuals dedicated to Sentebale’s mission. He maintained his innocence throughout the investigation, emphasizing his commitment to the charity and the children it serves. The accusations against Harry came at a sensitive time, following his highly publicized split from the British royal family in 2020 and his subsequent relocation to North America with his family. Sentebale was one of the few private patronages he retained after stepping back from royal duties.

Sentebale, co-founded by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in 2006, focuses on providing support to children affected by HIV and AIDS in Lesotho and Botswana. The charity was established as a tribute to Prince Harry’s late mother, Princess Diana, who was known for her humanitarian work. The name “Sentebale” means “forget me not” in the Sesotho language, a poignant reminder of Diana’s legacy and the enduring impact of her work. The charity’s mission is to provide vital services and create a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children in Southern Africa.

The Charity Commission’s report brings a measure of closure to the tumultuous period at Sentebale. While clearing Prince Harry of the bullying allegations, the report also underscores the importance of effective governance and internal communication within charities. The Commission’s chief executive, David Holdsworth, urged all parties to prioritize the needs of the children served by Sentebale and to work collaboratively to implement the recommended improvements. This incident serves as a reminder that even organizations with noble intentions can be vulnerable to internal conflict, and that transparency and accountability are essential for maintaining public trust.

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