Prince Harry’s charity head, Dr. Sophie Chandauka, has accused him of “harassment and bullying” and called the Sussex brand “toxic.”
Dr. Chandauka claimed Harry pressured her after she refused to defend Meghan against negative publicity. She also stated the Sussex name hindered Sentebale’s growth, making it harder to attract donors and hires.
Harry resigned from Sentebale last week after trustees quit following a breakdown in relations with Dr. Chandauka, who refused to step down.
Dr. Tsitsi Chandauka has accused Prince Harry of “harassment and bullying at scale” over a dispute involving the Sentebale charity. She claims Harry and co-founder Prince Seeiso tried to force the organization into crisis only to later “rescue” it.
In an interview, she alleged that Harry’s decision to publicly announce his resignation without informing her or field directors was an “attack.” She described this as the “Sussex machine”—a PR effort she claims was used against her.
Sentebale responded with a strong statement, accusing some of acting “above the law” and “playing the victim.” Meanwhile, sources close to Harry deny the allegations, calling them “completely baseless.”
Ms. Chandauka refused to resign after the board’s request and legally challenged their attempt to force her out. Though no injunction was granted, the board meeting was canceled, halting further court action.
She denied accusations of bullying, claiming instead that she faced discrimination and resistance to her reforms. Trustees rejected these allegations, and Prince Harry has denied any involvement in the charity’s troubles.
Baroness Lynda Chalker criticized Dr. Chandauka’s “almost dictatorial” leadership, leading to clashes within Sentebale.
The dispute’s origins remain contested, but tensions reportedly arose between Dr. Chandauka and Prince Harry in April 2024. Some sources claim the issue was not personal but due to concerns over governance.
Former trustees, including Harry’s mentor Mark Dyer, resigned due to lost confidence in Dr. Chandauka. Meanwhile, she refused to step down, stating she “will not be intimidated.”
The Charity Commission is assessing the situation, with further developments expected.
