Prince Harry is understood to be in discussions about the launch of a potential “new charity” alongside Prince Seeiso of Lesotho to rival Sentebale among a host of “options on the table” following his split from the organisation.
The Duke of Sussex, who left his role at the African-based nonprofit earlier this year, has been considering what direction to take in the wake of a report into claims of bullying and other abuses within the charity.
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Prince Harry is understood to be discussing setting up a ‘new charity’ to rival Sentebale
“The Duke is anxious that the fight against poverty and Aids in Lesotho and Botswana carries on,” an insider explained.
To that end, the source revealed that Harry is now in talks to set up a potential rival organisation to Sentebale with his original partner, Prince Seeiso of Lesotho.
“He and Prince Seeiso are keen to work together on a new venture,” the insider explained.
“They are talking about setting up a new charity or clubbing together to support other existing charities doing similar work in the region,” they told the Daily Mail.
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The Duke is set to join forces with Prince Seesio, who he founded Sentebale with in 2006, once more
A spokesman for Prince Harry told GB News: “The Duke remains absolutely committed to continuing the work he started, supporting the children and young people of Lesotho and Botswana, nearly 20 years ago
“In what form that support takes — NO decisions have been made.
“All options remain on the table; whether that be starting a new charity OR working to support pre-existing charities operating in the same sector in the region,” the statement concluded.
Last week, The Charity Commission’s report found there was confusion over roles at Sentebale, especially around powers delegated to the chair, and that the charity lacked proper internal complaints policies with no clear processes to resolve disputes.
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Harry will seek to continue aid for the region despite cutting ties with the African charity
They did not find evidence of widespread bullying, harassment, misogyny, or misconduct by Prince Harry or by any other trustees, but acknowledged that several people involved felt they had been mistreated, and that those feelings should not be dismissed.
Following the report’s release, a spokesman for the Duke of Sussex said it “falls troublingly short in many regards, primarily the fact that the consequences of the current Chair’s actions will not be borne by her – but by the children who rely on Sentebale’s support”.
“The Duke of Sussex will now focus on finding new ways to continue supporting the children of Lesotho and Botswana,” the statement concluded.
Speaking to GB News, veteran royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams predicted the Duke would be “devastated” by the development.
The expert expected Harry to investigate a “rival” venture but added: “He won’t do anything under the jurisdiction of The Charity Commission.”
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The Duke left his role at Sentebale earlier this year amid a feud with the charity’s chair, Dr Sophie Chandauka
A source close to the Prince said he has “no faith” in the commission and felt it was no longer “fit for purpose”.
As for the future of Sentebale itself, Fitzwilliam’s feared for the “poor children” cared for by the organisation.
“What we’re going to see undoubtedly is a huge drop (in funding), because one thing Harry did do for all his faults is he put a lot of money into Sentebale,” he said.
The commentator also wondered how the charity would be able to drum up anywhere near the publicity they previously enjoyed with the Duke in tow.
Meanwhile, it has been suggested that the nonprofit may independently pursue further action against the Duke of Sussex.