Prince Harry has been hit with allegations of “harassment and bullying at scale.” These allegations come just days after his resignation from the charity Sentebale earlier this week. The controversy erupted after Prince Harry, who co-founded the charity in 2006 with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, reportedly released damaging news without informing Dr. Sophie Chandauka, the chair of the charity, or other directors. The announcement came on Tuesday, the third day of a campaign started by Prince Harry.
Prince Harry’s deep connection to Sentebale goes back even further. Support the children and adolescents of Lesotho living with and affected by HIV/AIDS through this incredible organization. According to Prince Harry, he spent two months in Lesotho during his own gap year in 2004. Anchored by this extensive experience, Nika now has a strong personal connection to the charity’s mission. A new kerfuffle recently bubbled up over whether it was appropriate to focus U.S. fundraising efforts in Africa. This disagreement further escalated relations between Prince Harry and the board of trustees.
Dr. Chandauka condemned what Prince Harry did as the leak of the information was a clear case of “harassment and bullying.”
“The only reason I’m here … is because at some point on Tuesday, Prince Harry authorised the release of a damaging piece of news to the outside world without informing me or my country directors, or my executive director. That is an example of harassment and bullying at scale.” – Dr. Sophie Chandauka
In the midst of all this chaos, Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso issued a joint public statement explaining their unexpected decision to resign. They publicly announced their resignation as a gesture of support for the board of trustees. Having resigned from being the trustees themselves, their motivations to depart were each compelled. This decision further underscores the deepening divide between the organization’s leadership and its founders.
Dr. Chandauka raised the great danger of people abusing power and media power.
“There are people in this world who behave as though they are above the law and mistreat people, and then play the victim card and use the very press they disdain to harm people who have the courage to challenge their conduct.” – Dr. Sophie Chandauka
Prince Harry’s connection to Sentebale was extremely personal, as he revealed at a Sentebale gala dinner in 2020. Looking back on his experience with the organization, he credited the help given to him during a challenging point in his life after his mother passed away.
“When I lost my mum … you took me under your wing. You looked out for me for so long. Together, you have given me an education about living, and this role has taught me more about what is right and just than I could ever have imagined,” – Prince Harry