Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have found themselves at the centre of a scandal as their charity Archewell has been branded ‘delinquent’ and ordered to stop fundraising

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have faced a fresh blow as their Archewell charity has been ordered to suspend all fundraising and spending.

The charity, which the couple founded after stepping down from the Royal Family, has been branded “delinquent and not in good standing”. A scathing letter from California’s attorney general Rob Bonta said Archewell has allowed its registration fees to lapse since the beginning of May.

However, a source has claimed the issue is due to a misunderstanding and Harry and Meghan have remained defiant as they issued a heartfelt statement. Here’ we’ve taken an in-depth look at the charity scandal.

Archewell has been ordered to stop fundraising ( 
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The letter is far from favourable ( 
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Sussex5525/Twitter)
Rob Bonta’s letter has stated Archewell is now considered “not in good standing” and is restricted from undertaking activities requiring registration, such as soliciting or distributing charitable funds. It said: “An organisation that is listed as delinquent is not in good standing and is prohibited from engaging in conduct for which registration is required, including soliciting or disbursing charitable funds.

“The organisation may also be subject to penalties, and its registration may be suspended or revoked.” Archewell now has to submit records to show why the payment was late and pay late fees. The foundation has filed for an extension, according to reports.

‘Delinquent’ label

Things don’t look good for the charity ( 
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Getty Images for The Archewell F)
Archewell categorised as “delinquent” in the registry of charities and fundraisers due to its failure to submit its annual report and registration fees. When a charitable organisation fails to submit complete filings for each fiscal year, its status is changed to ‘Delinquent’.

If the delinquency is not remedied, the Registry status will be further changed to suspended, and/or revoked. The registry of charities and fundraisers does provide guidance for charities who have been listed as delinquent.

Lost cheque

A source has hit back at the scandal ( 
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A source close to Meghan and Harry has insisted all of the documents relating to Archewell were filed on time. They’ve said part of the filing included a physical cheque.

The insider told the Mirror : “For whatever reason, it has not been cashed. As soon as the foundation learnt of the problem, they immediately issued another cheque. Harry and Meghan’s team hope this will quickly resolve the issue within the next week.”

Defiant statement

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have ignored the scandal ( 
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Getty Images for The Archewell F)
Meghan and Harry are trying to ignore the Archewell drama and instead focus on their trip to Nigeria. Taking to their website, the couple issues a statement and described their visit to the African country as “unforgettable”.

The message spoke about the couple’s final event in Nigeria as they attended a cultural reception in Lagos and a polo match fundraiser. The statement said: “The day was capped off with the couple presenting medals, a gesture of appreciation for the players’ prolific talent and dedication.”

The message concluded: “The Duke and Duchess would like to extend their deepest gratitude to all the event organisers, military officials and the whole Nigerian community for their tremendous hospitality and the first of many memorable trips.”