BP Chairman Albert Manifold Dismissed Amid Governance Scandal

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – BP chairman Albert Manifold was dismissed yesterday over governance, oversight, and inappropriate behaviour issues. In response, Manifold condemned the decision and denied allegations regarding his conduct during his tenure at the British energy giant. According to AFP, he stated in communications to media that he would not remain silent about what he called false narratives. “I completely deny the portrayal of my behaviour,” he said on Wednesday, 27 May 2026. Manifold also claimed he was dismissed without warning or clear explanation, despite asserting he had pushed for major reforms including cost-cutting, challenging waste, and demanding higher standards. Anonymous sources cited by the Financial Times said other directors viewed him as overly aggressive and controlling. Amanda Blanc, a senior independent director, noted that while Manifold “helped bring welcomed focus and speed to BP’s transformation”, the board was “shocked and disappointed to learn of governance and conduct issues deemed unacceptable”. BP faced strong shareholder backlash at its annual general meeting last month after investors rejected a resolution to reduce climate reporting requirements. Part of the dissatisfaction was directed at Manifold, with 82% of shareholders voting in favour of his re-election—well below the near-unanimous support typically received by directors. He became chairman in October, replacing Helge Lund, who stepped down after major changes at the UK energy giant delayed carbon reduction targets to focus on fossil fuel production.