Ousted BP Chair Manifold Disputes Conduct Allegations

Albert Manifold, the recently ousted chairman of BP, has strongly disputed allegations of misconduct that led to his removal from the company. According to multiple reports, Manifold was dismissed by the board on Tuesday after just eight months in the role due to serious concerns about his governance standards and conduct.

In statements to various media outlets, including CNBC and UPI, Manifold claimed he was removed "without warning and without explanation" and disputed "entirely the characterization" of his conduct. He acknowledged that he pushed hard on cost-cutting and performance but denied acting aggressively or inappropriately towards colleagues.

The board's decision to remove Manifold comes amid a period of significant transformation for BP, as the company shifts its focus back to oil and gas from renewable energy. The dismissal has raised questions about corporate governance at the British energy major, with some analysts suggesting that BP may be becoming increasingly ungovernable.

Multiple media outlets reported that Manifold had acted aggressively with various colleagues during his brief tenure at the company, citing anonymous sources. However, Manifold has hired law firm Mishcon de Reya to represent him in the aftermath of his dismissal and is considering legal action against BP. The controversy has drawn attention from climate research groups and activist investors, who have called for a full and transparent account of the events leading to Manifold's ouster.