Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Sarah Jane Lebrasse
Published on 2024-04-11 08:00:52
In his quest to establish himself at MK, Charles Cartier makes a first decisive move against Ken Arian, who is increasingly isolated.
The arrival of a new CEO at the helm of Air Mauritius (MK) a month ago had so far left a sense of déjà vu with cosmetic changes for the gallery and the fearless pursuit of the grip of a clique on the functioning of Air Mauritius. In recent weeks, tongues have begun to loosen on the abusive practices of some potentates within the company through a stranglehold on the human resources department, which has become the nerve center of a policy of favoritism and misconduct. In its latest edition, Week-End hinted at the discouraged cry of employees who, once reassured by the arrival of the new CEO, ended up giving up and thinking that “Cartier continues to protect Arian’s proteges.” Nevertheless, in the end, Charles Cartier finally reacted and struck hard right into the beehive by sidelining one of the key pieces of clan politics at MK, Anba Manikham, who had until then enjoyed the favor and cover of Ken Arian, the CEO of Airports Holdings when he ruled the board of Air Mauritius.
The human resources department quickly emerged as a focal point of controversy. Allegations of favoritism, harassment, and special treatment circulated, fueling discontent among the staff. Anba Manikham, long considered a cornerstone of this system, was suspended from his duties following allegations of harassment and favoritism from his colleagues. As the Senior Manager of the Ground Services Worldwide department, his suspension shed harsh light on the condemnable practices at the core of human resources management at MK, highlighting concerns about fairness and justice in employee treatment. This decision comes in the context of a leadership change, where the new CEO, Charles Cartier, is attempting to establish a more transparent organizational culture that respects good governance.
Controversial practices
Since his arrival, he was said to be determined to take drastic measures to address internal governance issues. But nothing tangible has been done yet. He quickly identified Anba Manikham as one of the key figures linked to controversial practices within the company. Known to be close to Ken Arian, CEO of Airport Holdings Ltd, the former steward Anba Manikhan has seen his influence decline with the change in hierarchy at MK and the resignation of his mentor, Ken Arian, from the board of Air Mauritius. By assigning him to London to oversee an aircraft in wet lease, likely negotiated with Laurent Recoura, the management opened the way to a less tense atmosphere and the possibility for employees to denounce the problematic actions of Anba Manikham.
This suspension of a high-ranking official who reigned as a clan leader highlights the new management’s commitment to take swift and decisive action to address employee concerns and promote a fair and professional work environment.
Amid political connections
And make no mistake, this first suspension may only be the beginning of a vast clean-up campaign within Air Mauritius, especially the business class that a clique had appropriated. The fact that a close associate of Ken Arian was impacted is a clear sign that this CEO of Airport Holdings Ltd has lost control over Air Mauritius and that his supporters and courtiers are falling apart, especially as the resigning director of MK with the change of management is increasingly isolated. The arrival of Atma Bumma as a spokesperson within the MK management is not a gift for Arian given his political connections.
The suspension of Manikham is considered the beginning of the dismantling of what was perceived as a hardcore of dubious practitioners within MK. Alongside him, other important figures such as Laurent Recoura and Jean Bernard Sadien are in the crosshairs of this wave of changes. Bold measures are being taken to restore a serene atmosphere within the Air Mauritius (MK) staff.
In conclusion, if Charles Cartier has scored points with the Air Mauritius staff with this significant first move, the staff expects him to clean house as soon as possible to allow Air Mauritius to regain its respected status as an airline!
Read the original article(French) on Le Mauricien
