In a recent turn of events, an awkward moment captured between Meghan Markle and Sentebale chair Dr. Sophie Chandauka has resurfaced, shedding light on escalated tensions with Prince Harry and the subsequent shock resignation from the charity. The incident occured during the Royal Salute Polo Challenge in April 2024, where the Duchess of Sussex seemed to direct Chandauka away from Harry during a group photo opportunity. The Telegraph reported that Prince Harry reached out to Chandauka after she refused to issue a statement regarding the incident, leading to a chain of events that ultimately resulted in Harry and his co-founder Prince Seeiso stepping down as patrons of Sentebale, a charity they established in 2006 in memory of their late mothers.
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The Royal Salute Polo Challenge moment, captured in Wellington, Florida, showcased a cheerful photo of Prince Harry, Meghan, and Chandauka celebrating Harry’s team victory. However, tensions seemed to escalate following this incident, as Chandauka claimed in a Financial Times interview that the dispute with Harry began with this photo moment and later escalated due to differing views on public statements. While sources close to Sentebale patrons and trustees highlighted governance concerns as the root of the dispute, not personal issues, Chandauka’s testimony painted a picture of conflicting interests regarding the charity’s public image and statements.
Despite a seemingly amicable interaction between Prince Harry and Chandauka at a New York City event in December 2024, allegations of harassment and bullying emerged following Harry’s resignation from Sentebale. The Telegraph reported that Harry had allegedly messaged Chandauka demanding an explanation after she declined to address the tensions between her and Meghan publicly. This message was described as unpleasant and imperious in tone, exacerbating an already strained relationship.
The joint statement issued by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso regarding their resignation underlined the breakdown in relationships within the charity, particularly with Chandauka, who assumed a leadership role in July 2023. Chandauka, who filed a lawsuit against Sentebale after being asked to resign by the board of trustees, is under investigation by the Charity Commission in the UK. Sources familiar with the situation highlighted significant financial strain placed on the organization during Chandauka’s tenure, leading to the decision by the trustees to resign in support of the charity’s stability.
As the saga unfolds, the focus remains on the impact of internal conflicts on Sentebale’s mission to support young people in Lesotho and Botswana. The fallout between the charity’s leadership and trustees raises questions about governance, financial stability, and the future direction of the organization. With investigations ongoing and reputations at stake, the charity must navigate turbulent waters to uphold its founding principles and support those in need amidst a backdrop of uncertainty and discord.