Prince Harry's cherished charity, Sentebale, is facing an investigation following a series of resignations and internal conflicts. Here's what you need to know about the ongoing probe.
- Apr 4, 2025
AceShowbiz - Prince Harry is welcoming a "robust inquiry" by the U.K.'s Charity Commission into Sentebale, an organization he co-founded with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in 2006. The charity, aimed at supporting young people in Southern Africa in memory of their late mothers, has been embroiled in controversy following internal disputes that led to several high-profile resignations.
Prince Harry, while describing the fallout as "heartbreaking to witness," is hopeful that the investigation will reveal the truth and mend the damages caused by the leadership disputes. "No one suffers more than the beneficiaries of Sentebale itself," he said.
The controversy began when Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso, 58, announced their resignation from their patron roles on March 26, citing irreparable breakdowns in leadership relationships.
The resignation was described as a "devastating decision" in their joint statement, which highlighted the trustees' unanimous resignation amid a fallout with the chairwoman, Dr. Sophie Chandauka.
The Charity Commission has since launched a "regulatory compliance case" to investigate concerns regarding the governance and management of Sentebale. In their statement, the Commission outlined their role in gathering evidence and assessing whether past and present trustees complied with their legal duties.
Dr. Chandauka, appointed chairwoman in July 2023, responded by expressing her support for the investigation. She revealed that she had raised issues in February 2025 following internal governance findings and emphasized the importance of the inquiry in restoring public trust.
She assured that the charity's Executive team and operational staff are dedicated to maintaining the day-to-day mission of Sentebale despite embroiled tensions.
Dr. Chandauka accused Prince Harry of "bullying" and "harassment." She claimed that Harry attempted to force her out of the organization, particularly after a supposed uncomfortable exchange involving Meghan Markle during a charity polo match in April 2024.
Dr. Kelello Lerotholi, a former trustee and cousin of Prince Seeiso, voiced his concern over the emotional well-being of both princes, citing their deep commitment to the charity's mission. The prolonged discord has apparently weighed heavily on both Harry and Seeiso, who founded the charity in honor of their moms and were driven by a shared vision to make a positive impact in Southern Africa.
