Government-owned utilities provider GEBE continues to be a source of concern. It is confirmed in today’s newspaper that the shareholder’s representative has asked the entire Supervisory Board to step down.
This comes after several management members were dismissed and/or suspended over the past months, raising questions as to continuity in how the water and electricity company is run. On the other hand, it was the same board that brought back former managing director William Brooks, who did not leave on the best of terms several years ago, and then proposed him as new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), only to withdraw his nomination at the last minute.
Under the circumstances, it’s understandable that the Council of Ministers has “lost confidence” in the current board members. If they don’t resign voluntarily the Corporate Governance Council (CGC) will be approached for a dismissal procedure.
A “series of things” was mentioned as the immediate reason, including the alleged spreading of confidential information about the company. However, it must be kept in mind that there has been much public controversy surrounding GEBE of late and this no doubt prompted some pressure to bring out certain facts.
Nevertheless, the board members are advised to “do the honourable thing” at this point and quit. After all, it regards a function in service of the community that never should be seen as anybody’s right to occupy.
Ultimately, the general interest must prevail over that of individuals, no matter how unjust this may seem at times. Especially in light of its crucial role as well as monopoly position, peace and tranquillity rather than more infighting are what GEBE needs.
