Prince Harry 'Very Upset' as Sentebale Chair Mentions Princess Diana Amid Charity Scandal

Prince Harry has been left 'very upset' after the chair of his former charity, Sentebale, made personal remarks invoking his late mother, Princess Diana, amid a deepening leadership crisis. Sophie Chandauka also raised allegations of racism, reigniting tensions inside the organisation and drawing unwanted public attention.

The Duke of Sussex cut ties with Sentebale in March 2025 following what insiders described as a complete breakdown of trust between himself and the board's leadership. Five trustees resigned alongside him in protest. The rift sparked an official investigation by the UK Charity Commission, which released its findings earlier this month.

What Did Chandauka Say?

In a recent interview, Dr Chandauka claimed she had endured 'relentless attacks' since stepping into the chair role and suggested some of the criticism may have been racially motivated. She also accused others of using Princess Diana's legacy 'selectively' to justify their actions.

The remarks reportedly struck a nerve with Prince Harry, who has long considered Sentebale a living tribute to his mother's humanitarian legacy. Royal sources told Daily Mail that the Duke found the comments 'particularly upsetting', especially as Diana's name was pulled into a dispute he had hoped to leave behind.

How the Fallout Began

The public rupture between Prince Harry and Sentebale's board emerged in March 2025, when he and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho stepped down as patrons. Five additional trustees followed suit in protest over Chandauka's leadership.

At the time, the departures were framed as a professional disagreement, but tensions escalated in the weeks that followed.

Earlier this month, the Charity Commission concluded its probe. While it found no evidence of wrongdoing, it highlighted 'clear weaknesses in internal governance'. Chandauka's subsequent media appearance marked a new flashpoint in the ongoing saga.

Where Sentebale Operates

Sentebale is a UK-registered charity regulated by the Charity Commission for England and Wales. Its programmes focus on mental health, HIV awareness, and youth empowerment across Lesotho and Botswana. Despite its African footprint, the charity's leadership and decision-making are based in London.

Key Players in the Dispute

Prince Harry co-founded Sentebale in 2006 with Prince Seeiso, aiming to honour Princess Diana's legacy through charitable work in southern Africa. Sophie Chandauka, a corporate lawyer and prominent business executive, became chair of the board in recent years. Tensions reportedly intensified under her leadership, leading to claims of a toxic environment behind the scenes.

Harry has kept a low profile throughout the ordeal, issuing statements only through official channels. Sources close to him say he was reluctant to fuel further drama, preferring to step away quietly.

Why Diana and Race Are Now in the Spotlight

Chandauka's decision to reference Princess Diana and discuss racial dynamics has significantly shifted the tone of the controversy. For Harry, the matter is deeply personal. Those close to him say he feels his mother's name has been used unfairly in what was meant to be a professional dispute. He also firmly denies that any of the trustee resignations were racially motivated.

Although no legal action has been taken by either side, the public remarks have revived a scandal that had momentarily quieted following the commission's review.

What Happens Next?

Sources say Prince Harry is 'disappointed and hurt' but unlikely to re-engage with Sentebale. He has no formal role within the charity and is said to be channelling his energy into other projects. However, insiders have hinted at a potential new initiative in Lesotho that may align with his original mission.

As for Sentebale, the organisation remains under Chandauka's leadership. Whether it can weather the reputational damage and move forward remains uncertain.