In a surprising turn of events, Sophie Chandauka, chairperson of Sentebale Charity, has publicly accused Prince Harry of orchestrating a campaign of harassment aimed at removing her from the organization. The charity, established nearly two decades ago to honor Princess Diana’s legacy, now finds itself embroiled in controversy following the Duke of Sussex’s abrupt resignation.
During a televised interview, Chandauka expressed shock at Harry’s departure, describing it as an act of “harassment and bullying at scale” that blindsided her completely. She alleged serious misconduct within the organization, citing concerns about power abuse, harassment, and discriminatory behavior directed at Black women.
The conflict reportedly intensified after a Miami polo fundraiser where complications arose involving Harry’s Netflix commitments and an awkward trophy presentation involving Meghan Markle. According to Chandauka, the charity experienced a significant decline in donations following the Sussexes’ withdrawal from royal duties in 2020.
In their resignation statement, Harry and co-founder Prince Seeiso of Lesotho cited an irreparable breakdown in the relationship between board members and Chandauka. They expressed “heavy hearts” but maintained that the situation had become untenable, noting that Chandauka had initiated legal action to retain her voluntary position.
Sentebale, whose name means “don’t forget me” in Sesotho, was originally founded to support youth affected by AIDS in Lesotho and Botswana. The organization has since evolved to address broader issues of youth health, wealth, and climate resilience throughout southern Africa.
Sources familiar with the situation suggest Harry and Seeiso had privately communicated their resignation two weeks before making it public, anticipating Chandauka’s response.