Duke of Sussex pushes back after charity chair's renewed misconduct claims
The rift at Sentebale is showing no signs of easing, with Harry taking decisive steps against the charity's chair, Dr Sophie Chandauka.
The Duke of Sussex, who co-founded the organization with Prince Seeiso, resigned from his role in March following a bitter governance dispute. The fallout began after Dr Chandauka accused Harry of corruption, bullying, and misogynoir — allegations investigated by the UK Charity Commission.
After a four-month inquiry, the Commission found “no evidence” to support the claims. Despite this, Sentebale later sought to determine whether individual bullying allegations had been fully examined, a move that angered Harry.
According to the Mail on Sunday, Harry has now lodged a formal complaint accusing Dr Chandauka of “recycling unfounded claims” under the guise of clarification. A letter from his office criticized her for publicly revisiting “serious, highly charged and damaging allegations” and for “misusing charitable resources for personal vindication.”
Concerns have also emerged about Dr Chandauka's appointment in 2023. At the time, she reportedly asked the board for $3,000 (£2,200) per day for her work, citing it as a pay cut from her usual £2,500 fee for a 60-minute speaking engagement. One source described this as a sharp contrast to the “selfless, pro bono spirit” in which most trustees serve.
While the boardroom tensions continue, Harry is said to be preparing to launch a new charity aimed at supporting vulnerable children in Botswana and Lesotho — the very cause Sentebale was founded to serve.
