The Duke of Sussex is considering starting a new humanitarian charity following a highly publicised dispute that saw him leave his Sentebale charity. A spokesperson confirmed that Prince Harry remains "absolutely committed" to continuing his work supporting young people in southern Africa.
Harry stepped down as patron of Sentebale in March alongside trustees who resigned in opposition to board chairwoman Dr Sophie Chandauka. The charity works in Botswana and Lesotho supporting the health and wellbeing of young people, particularly those with HIV and Aids.
Prince Seeiso also steps down
Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, who co-founded Sentebale with Harry in honour of Diana, Princess of Wales, in 2006, also stepped down as patron. The Charity Commission published a report into the episode on Tuesday, criticising all sides for making the fallout public through interviews and statements.
A source described the row as "emotionally absolutely devastating" for Harry earlier this week. They characterised Dr Chandauka's comments as "nothing short of a hostile takeover" of the charity.
New charity remains option
On Sunday, a spokesperson for the duke said all options remain on the table for his future humanitarian work. "In what form that support takes -- no decisions have been made," they said, adding that this could involve "starting a new charity or working to support pre-existing charities operating in the same sector in the region".
The charity regulator found no evidence of systemic bullying or harassment, including misogyny or misogynoir at Sentebale. However, it acknowledged "the strong perception of ill treatment" felt by some involved, though it cannot investigate individual allegations of bullying.
Trustees express concerns
The resigned trustees said they were "gravely concerned for the future of the charity" in a statement. They felt 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 by noting the Charity Commission "is explicitly clear" it does not adjudicate or mediate internal disputes. The charity said issues not investigated by the commission "can and may be dealt with through avenues more appropriate than the commission".
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
