By Our Reporter
As President Museveni continues to wait for ex-MTN CEO Wim’s written apology and letter of undertaking to do better upon reinstatement, shocking information has emerged pointing at existence of a plot to sideline long-serving MTN board chairman Charles Mbiire from key decision making roles. In his recent meeting with MTN bosses, Museveni somehow defended Wim and expressed willingness to allow him back to Uganda on condition that he apologizes and promises never to tolerate activities that are hostile to Uganda’s security. As of now, the big man from Rwakitura is waiting for the letter which Wim has expressed willingness to write.
BACK TO MBIIRE
Desirous to remain the Ugandan with largest shareholding and subsequently board chairman, Mbiire’s supporters in Capital Markets Authority (CMA) had planned to ensure Museveni’s directive of selling 20% shareholding to indigenous Ugandans is implemented in a manner that doesn’t threaten his controlling interest in the company. Mbiire currently has 3.76% shares in MTN and his supporters in CMA were determined to make sure the IPO doesn’t result into a situation where another Ugandan acquires more than 3.76% shareholding. However, Mbiire like any other powerful figure has haters (call them mafias) with very strong political connections. These are people that have always been envious seeing him earn billions from his MTN shareholding. These have used their connections to ensure that the 20% shares are floated on the USE as opposed to giving them out in a clandestine manner. One of them has prepared enough money to acquire as much as 10% shareholding, a status that will enable him to sweep Mbiire off the post of MTN board chairman which he has occupied for an eternity. It’s understood that having fallen out with his right hand man Anthony Katamba (for failing to protect him against Wim who eventually fired him) Mbiire has lately been in a very awkward and weakened position at MTN Uganda.
KATAMBA SUES
In a related development, being one that is never prepared to go down without a fight, Katamba has actually sued MTN by filing a case at the Nakawa-based Industrial Court challenging what he calls unfair and wrongful dismissal by Wim who he faults Mbiire for not prevailing over. When Katamba reached out to his mentor Mbiire for protection against Wim, the board chairman indifferently turned his back on him while saying the matter was complicated and required an entire board meeting to reach a decision. Katamba, who had always been there for Mbiire, took this for betrayal and in his suit he is demanding for reinstatement and payment of damages against his former employer. In standing with Wim, Mbiire and the guys at Group Headquarters in South Africa were mindful of the CEO’s stellar performance which saw MTN’s number of subscribers grow back to 11m unlike during Wim’s predecessor when it had dropped to 9m. For comments, call, text or whatsapp us on 0703164755.
