A recent report by the UK’s Charity Commission has found that Prince Harry’s charity, Sentebale, had governance weaknesses that led to a damaging dispute between its leaders and former trustee Prince Harry. The watchdog criticized “all parties” for allowing the public argument to occur, which it said damaged the charity’s reputation.
However, the report did not find evidence of widespread bullying, harassment, or misogyny at the charity. Despite this, the Commission recommended that Sentebale address governance weaknesses, including a lack of clarity over roles and a better mechanism for handling internal disputes.
The current leadership under Sophie Chandauka remains in place, with no sanctions imposed on individuals. The Charity Commission warned of “weaknesses in the charity’s management” that contributed to disagreements, particularly around a new fundraising strategy in the US.
Prince Harry has resigned from Sentebale and will now focus on finding new ways to support the children of Lesotho and Botswana. The charity’s chair, Sophie Chandauka, said the “adverse media campaign” had caused “incalculable damage,” but remains committed to continuing the charity’s work.
The Charity Commission emphasized that passion for a cause can be a weakness rather than a strength when it leads to disagreements. The watchdog urged Sentebale’s current trustees to make improvements and ensure the charity focuses on delivering services for its beneficiaries.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c741n548dkko