Oxfam's chief executive, Dr Halima Begum, has been forced out of her £130,000-a-year role following an internal investigation that found her position 'untenable'. The probe centred on her public criticism of UK government policy on Ukraine and her handling of messaging around the Gaza conflict, which staff claimed risked their safety.
Investigation Uncovers 'Serious Issues' with Leadership
The charity's board of trustees commissioned an independent review by law firm Howlett Brown between November and December this year. The investigation gathered testimony from 32 current and former staff members alongside documentary evidence. It concluded there had been an 'irretrievable breakdown in trust and confidence' in Dr Begum's ability to lead.
The report identified 'serious issues' with her leadership and alleged breaches of organisational processes and values. This followed a letter signed by 70 staff calling for an inquiry into her conduct, including allegations of bullying and fostering a climate of fear.
Controversial Comments on Ukraine and Gaza
A significant factor in the controversy was Dr Begum's public commentary on international conflicts. During a BBC Radio 4 Any Questions appearance in November last year, she criticised the West for supplying long-range missiles and anti-personnel landmines to Ukraine, calling it a 'retrograde step'.
She accused the UK of 'taking sides' and said the situation felt like a 'reincarnation of the Cold War'. These remarks reportedly triggered a surge in complaints and donor withdrawals.
Regarding Gaza, the investigation found Dr Begum attempted to rewrite Oxfam's politically neutral public stance. Staff alleged she was not careful enough in considering the safety of colleagues in Gaza when she publicly called for the UK to stop arming Israel. They feared her changes could expose them to potential retaliation in a volatile environment.
Concerns were also raised about her participation in a Westminster panel in July with Palestinian journalist Abubaker Abed, who is said to have referred to the October 7 attacks as a 'great day'.
Legal Action and Internal Backlash
Dr Begum's departure has sparked serious infighting within Oxfam. Her lawyers confirmed she will take legal action against the charity for 'defamatory and unfounded criticism', which she describes as 'hatemongering and stigmatisation'. They allege she was subjected to a 'victimising witch-hunt'.
An ally on the board, trustee Balwant Singh, claimed he was excluded from the decision and called it a 'carefully orchestrated and intentionally brutal retaliation'. He said Dr Begum had previously filed a grievance involving claims of sexism, racism, and bullying against a board member.
Oxfam has appointed Jan Oldfield, its chief supporter officer, as acting chief executive while a permanent replacement is sought. A spokesperson stated the board has taken steps to strengthen oversight and address the report's recommendations.
This scandal is the latest to hit Oxfam, which has faced financial difficulties, staff strikes over pay, and controversy over internal guidance on inclusive language in recent years.
