Charitable initiatives worldwide often find themselves embroiled in controversies, particularly in underdeveloped regions where oversight and accountability mechanisms may be lacking.
One such instance has come to light regarding Prince Harry’s African conservation charity, which is now facing troubling allegations of torture.
The disturbing revelations surfaced when a former park ranger confessed to engaging in brutal practices including tying up suspects and subjecting them to physical abuse.
Among the harrowing techniques employed was the use of a torture method known as ‘the swing,’ as detailed by Dutch journalist Olivier van Beemen in his book Entrepreneurs in the Wild.
Van Beemen’s exposé shed light on previously undisclosed incidents of rape and abuse perpetrated by Zambian African Park rangers.
While initial allegations came to public attention in January, the publication of additional accusations has intensified scrutiny on the charity’s operations.
Notably, there were internal discussions within African Parks about potential reputational risks posed by Prince Harry’s association with the organization, but current developments indicate that it is now the charity facing a severe reputational crisis due to these damning allegations.
Former ranger Foster Kalunga provided chilling details about the torture technique called kampelwa or ‘swing,’ recounting how victims were bound hand and foot behind their backs, suspended between tree branches, and spun around while being struck.
The excruciating pain inflicted during this ordeal often coerced individuals into confessing information, even if it was untrue.
In response to these allegations, African Parks vehemently denied the claims made in Van Beemen’s book, asserting that it contained numerous inaccuracies and misleading statements motivated by bias against the organization.
The charity emphasized its zero-tolerance policy towards human rights abuses and expressed regret over any instances where such violations may have occurred.
Moreover, they discredited Kalunga’s testimony by revealing that he had been dismissed for gross misconduct following an assault on a senior officer.
African Parks further refuted any knowledge or documentation supporting the use of the kampelwa torture method by their rangers under management.
These rebuttals aimed to challenge the credibility of the accusations leveled against them while reaffirming their commitment to upholding ethical standards within their operations.
Prince Harry’s involvement with the NGO adds another layer of complexity to this controversy, considering his role as president before assuming a position on its board of directors last year.
As a key figure within the organization responsible for shaping policies and strategies, his reputation has also been entangled in this scandal, raising questions about his awareness of potential misconduct within African Parks.
When news of the scandal first broke in January, Harry and Meghan’s Archewell Foundation said in a statement:
‘When the Duke became aware of these serious allegations, he immediately escalated them to the CEO and chairman of the board of African Parks, the appropriate people to handle next steps.’”
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1 Comment
All abusers always say we did nothing wrong. They get caught and blame everyone but their miserable self. Biden and democrats do the same thing. They destroy people’s lives but blame the Republicans. How many children have been abused by Biden? But there is always an excuse for Biden actions. Harry so busy being the wimp of a husband for his bossy wife. Too big of whiner! Needs to grow up and get over your privilege life you had. Every one saw how he lived. Parties, drugs, running around nake. Your parents did not teach you that. Your mother never whined like you do!