Defamation claim against Prince Harry paused over charity's financial concerns

OPA WIRE, Oct 19 (OPA) — The legal dispute centers on allegations that Prince Harry coordinated an adverse media campaign against Sentebale, which the charity claims caused operational disruption and reputational damage. Both the Duke of Sussex and his childhood mentor, former trustee Mark Dyer, have rejected the claims, describing them as offensive and damaging. All parties have now agreed to extend deadlines for filing defenses, effectively keeping the particulars of the claim out of the public record for the time being.

Financial filings for 2025 indicate Sentebale’s income fell to approximately £2 million, down from £2.5 million in 2024. Revenue from events saw a sharp decline, dropping from £715,000 to £70,000, largely due to the cessation of polo tournaments previously associated with the Duke. While donations increased by £50,000 to £342,000, the charity’s board expressed concerns that a protracted legal battle could threaten its long-term viability.

The conflict follows a period of internal instability that saw the resignation of several trustees and a public dispute involving board chair Dr. Sophie Chandauka. In a subsequent report, the Charity Commission criticized all parties for allowing the disagreement to play out in the media, though it found no evidence of systemic bullying or harassment. The regulator noted that the public nature of the fallout risked undermining trust in the charitable sector.

Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho co-founded Sentebale in 2006 to support children affected by HIV and AIDS in Botswana and Lesotho. The charity was established in memory of the Duke’s late mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. Representatives for the Duke declined to comment on the current status of the litigation, and Sentebale has not issued a formal statement regarding the pause in proceedings.