In brief
The decision follows a breakdown in trust between the charity's leadership, leading to multiple resignations.
Prince Harry, alongside Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, has officially resigned as the patron of Sentebale, the charity established by the two princes in 2006. This decision comes after a significant rift among the charity’s board of trustees, culminating in the resignation of five members. The announcement, made on March 26, 2025, details how the two royals stepped back in solidarity with the remaining trustees, following a disintegration of trust with the charity’s board chair, Sophie Chandauka.In a joint statement, the princes expressed their shock and disappointment over the circumstances leading to their resignation, emphasizing their ongoing commitment to the beneficiaries of Sentebale. They stated, “We are shocked that we have to do this, but we have a continued responsibility to Sentebale’s beneficiaries."This charity, which serves communities affected by the HIV pandemic in Lesotho, has expanded its work to address issues such as substance abuse and gender-based violence among young people. However, recent months have seen turmoil within its leadership, particularly regarding Chandauka, who faced calls for her resignation from the trustees. In response, she initiated legal action in Britain aimed at preventing her removal, prompting the trustees to step down to avoid imposing legal costs on the charity.The trustees described their resignation as a painful but necessary decision to protect Sentebale from the escalating conflict and financial burden that could ensue from the ongoing legal disputes. They stated, “This was not a choice willingly made, but rather something we felt forced into in order to look after the charity.” The situation poses significant challenges for Sentebale, which was founded in memory of Princess Diana and aims to improve the lives of vulnerable children and young people in Southern Africa.
