Prince Harry Faces Criticism Over Silence on African Parks Charity Abuse Claims

Prince Harry, the president of the African Parks charity, is facing mounting criticism for his silence on controversial claims surrounding the organization. According to a report in The Times, African Parks guards have allegedly beaten and tortured local communities in Zambia, including using a torture method called 'the Swing.'

The allegations originate from a three-year investigation conducted by Dutch journalist Olivier van Beemen, detailed in his book 'Entrepreneurs in the Wild.' Van Beemen's investigation revealed dozens of incidents of alleged abuse, including torture and rape, carried out by African Parks' armed rangers based on interviews with victims and perpetrators.

While African Parks has disputed the claims, stating that the report is "deeply flawed," the organization acknowledged that the allegations involve "dozens of incidents of alleged abuse." African Parks said Kalunga, a former Zambian ranger who detailed a horrific torture method, was dismissed for misconduct and that there are no records of the 'kampelwa' torture method being used in Liuwa Plain.

Why this matters: The allegations against African Parks, a charity funded by British aid, celebrities, and American billionaires, raise serious concerns about the organization's practices and governance. As the president of African Parks, Prince Harry's silence on the matter has drawn criticism and questions about his role and responsibility in addressing the claims.

Royal commentator Daniela Elser noted that Harry, who has been vocal in calling out wrongs done to him and his wife Meghan, has not responded to these disturbing claims. Elser stated that Harry has not even issued a brief statement expressing concern over the allegations if proven to be true, which she sees as a reflection of his hypocrisy.

Pressure groups have called for Prince Harry to quit the organization, and van Beemen has suggested that Harry and other directors should "reconsider their own roles" in light of the allegations. African Parks said the investigation is ongoing and that the author was biased in his reporting.

Key Takeaways

• Prince Harry faces criticism for silence on African Parks abuse claims
• Allegations of torture, rape by African Parks guards in Zambia revealed
• African Parks acknowledges "dozens of incidents of alleged abuse"
• Pressure on Harry to quit organization over handling of allegations
• African Parks disputes claims, says investigation is ongoing