MTN Group’s board publicly backed CEO Ralph Mupita after an independent investigation found no evidence to support allegations of misconduct made by executives at the operator.
South Africa’s Sunday Times newspaper reported that several executives at MTN were threatening to resign in protest at Mupita’s behaviour – most notably, his close relationship with a top female executive. Mupita is alleged to have offered her favours as well as preferential treatment, such granting her responsibilities poached from other executives.
In response, MTN’s board tasked an independent law firm with investigation the allegations. In a statement, the board noted that “attempts to engage with the complainant were unsuccessful and the report found there was no evidence of improper conduct”, adding that it has “accepted the report finding and is of the view that the matter has been addressed and is now closed.”
Bloomberg reported that Mupita also has the formal backing of ten of MTN’s top 15 executives, who signed a memorandum supporting him. Mupita has led MTN since 2020, and his contract is up for renewal next year.
