The Duke of Sussex is considering starting a new humanitarian charity after a highly publicised dispute saw him leave his Sentebale charity, a spokesperson has said.
In a move that showed solidarity with trustees who resigned in protest, Harry relinquished his role as patron of the charity in March. This came after board chairwoman Dr Sophie Chandauka accused him of bullying and harassment. A Charity Commission probe did not uphold those claims.
Sentebale, which operates in Botswana and Lesotho, dedicates itself to improving the lives and health of young individuals, particularly those affected by HIV and AIDS.
Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, who established Sentebale with the duke in 2006 as a tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales, also relinquished his patronage.
Following the release of a Charity Commission report on Tuesday that chastised all involved for airing their grievances publicly, the dispute has continued to escalate.
An insider earlier this week described the conflict as “emotionally absolutely devastating” for Harry and characterised Dr Chandauka’s remarks as tantamount to “nothing short of a hostile takeover”.
On Sunday, a spokesperson for the duke announced: “The duke remains absolutely committed to continuing the work he started, supporting the children and young people of Lesotho and Botswana, nearly 20 years ago.
“In what form that support takes – no decisions have been made.
“All options remain on the table; whether that be starting a new charity or working to support pre-existing charities operating in the same sector in the region.”
The charity watchdog, unable to probe specific claims of bullying, found no signs of widespread bullying or harassment, including misogyny or misogynoir at the organisation but did recognise “the strong perception of ill treatment” experienced by some participants.
Resigned trustees expressed deep concerns for the charity’s future in a statement, feeling that the commission had “chosen to ignore key concerns and irrefutable evidence raised with them regarding the leadership and oversight of Sentebale’s chair”.
Sentebale responded to the outcome, clarifying in a statement: “The Charity Commission is explicitly clear, including in its public guidance, that it is not the commission’s responsibility to adjudicate or mediate internal disputes. This would include individual allegations of bullying, harassment, misogyny, misogynoir etc.”
They further explained, “As a result, the commission has not investigated any individual allegations and therefore has not made any findings in relation to individuals, including Prince Harry.”
The charity added, “The issues not investigated by the commission can and may be dealt with through avenues more appropriate than the commission.”
