Sentebale’s leadership dispute ends with governance reforms but lingering tensions remain
Prince Harry is said to be moving on from one of his life's most meaningful projects with a heavy heart, after the UK Charity Commission concluded its investigation into Sentebale — the African charity he co-founded in 2006 with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho.
The review, which ended on 5 August, closed a turbulent chapter marked by internal conflict between the Duke of Sussex, several trustees, and chairwoman Dr Sophie Chandauka. Earlier this year, Harry and a group of long-standing trustees resigned amid a breakdown in relations over governance issues.
The Commission's compliance case identified confusion around leadership roles and a lack of formal complaints procedures but found no evidence of widespread bullying or misconduct by Harry or the departing trustees. A Regulatory Action Plan has been issued to strengthen governance going forward.
In a joint statement, the former trustees expressed disappointment over the outcome, accusing the chair of failing to deliver on a promised governance review. “We remain seriously concerned for the future of the charity and the well-being of the communities we served for 19 years, following the mission set out by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso in honor of their mothers,” they said.
A spokesperson for the Duke confirmed that while Harry was “devastated” by the split, he remains committed to supporting children in Lesotho and Botswana “in honor of the legacy he and Prince Seeiso began.”
Dr Chandauka, meanwhile, defended her position, accusing those who resigned of waging an “adverse media campaign” but insisting the charity is now “stronger, better governed… and with our dignity intact.”
The dispute's resolution may mark the end of Harry's official role at Sentebale, but his dedication to its cause appears unwavering.
