Charity Co-Founded by Prince Harry Files Defamation Suit Against Him

Sentebale, a charity co-founded by Prince Harry, has filed a defamation lawsuit against him and close friend Mark Dyer in London's High Court.

The specific details of the case have not been disclosed. Neither Prince Harry's spokesperson nor the charity has responded to requests for comment regarding the lawsuit.

Background of the Charity

Prince Harry co-founded Sentebale in 2006 with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho. The organization's mission is to support young people affected by HIV and AIDS in southern Africa, established in honor of his late mother, Princess Diana.

Prior Disputes and Resignation

Last year, Prince Harry resigned as a patron of Sentebale, citing that his relationship with the chair and trustees had "broken down beyond repair, creating an untenable situation."

This followed a boardroom dispute in March when chair Sophie Chandauka publicly accused Prince Harry of "bullying." Days prior, Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso had announced their resignations from the charity after trustees quit when Ms. Chandauka reportedly refused their demand to step down.

Ms. Chandauka has stated that her lawsuit has merit and referred to herself as a whistleblower against "abuse of power" and "misogynoir."

Regulatory Findings

Following a months-long inquiry into the dispute, the UK-based Charity Commission concluded that it "found no evidence of widespread or systemic bullying or harassment, including misogyny or misogynoir at the charity."

The Commission criticized all parties involved for allowing the dispute to become public, noting its severe impact on the charity's reputation. It subsequently issued a plan for Sentebale to address its governance weaknesses.