AceShowbiz - The Charity Commission has launched an investigation into Sentebale, the charity founded by Prince Harry, following "concerns raised" about potential racism and bullying. The investigation, spurred by alarming allegations made by Sentebale chairwoman Dr. Sophie Chandauka, has put the charity under intense scrutiny.

Sentebale, established in 2006 to support AIDS patients in Africa, found itself embroiled in controversy after a dispute between Prince Harry and Dr. Chandauka. The conflict began after Chandauka refused to publicly defend Meghan Markle following an awkward exchange.

Prince Harry allegedly sent an "unpleasant" message to Chandauka, demanding that she "explain herself" for not issuing a supportive statement for his wife.

In a recent development, the entire board of trustees, including Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, resigned last week. The mass resignation was perceived as a direct statement on Chandauka's leadership, amidst growing tensions and allegations.

Chandauka, who took on her leadership role in 2023, accused Prince Harry of "harassment and bullying at scale" in a Sky News interview, further straining the relationship between her and the charity's founders.

The Charity Commission's statement on Thursday highlighted that the regulator is "now in direct contact with parties who have raised concerns to gather evidence and assess the compliance of the charity and trustees past and present with their legal duties."

The investigation aims to determine whether Sentebale's current and former trustees, including its chair, have adhered to their responsibilities under charity law.

Dr. Chandauka's initial complaint in February accused the Sentebale board of "bullying, harassment, misogyny [and] misogynoir," prompting the watchdog to take action. With the launch of an internal review last year, Sentebale is poised to present its findings soon, promising transparency and good governance.

"We hope that, together, these actions will give the general public, our colleagues, partners, supporters, donors, and the communities we serve comfort that Sentebale and its new board of trustees are acting appropriately," Chandauka stated.

As the investigation unfolds, the Sentebale charity, once a beacon of hope for AIDS patients in Africa, now grapples with internal strife and reputational damage. The outcome of the Charity Commission's inquiry remains uncertain, but it is clear that the road ahead for Sentebale will require significant steps towards rebuilding trust and fostering a healthy organizational culture.