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Lawyers for the axed former chief executive of Oxfam GB have said she will launch legal action against the charity, claiming she was constructively dismissed.
Halima Begum’s solicitors said she was “forced to resign” due to the “hostile, victimising and discriminatory conduct of Oxfam”.
They said she “entirely denies the defamatory and unfounded criticism of her”.
Dr Begum was forced out by the charity’s board on Friday amid accusations of bullying. An independent review found “serious issues” with her behaviour and decision making.
The organisation’s trustees decided Dr Begum’s position was “untenable” because of an “irretrievable breakdown in its trust and confidence” in her ability to do the job.
Dr Begum had been in the role for almost two years.
Her solicitor, Lawrence Davies, said: “Our client alleges that she was subjected to, and continues to be subjected to, a victimising witch-hunt.
“The truth of what actually happened will be revealed in due course.
“Our client has whistleblown to the Charity Commission about various public interest matters which we assume are now being investigated.”
Dr Begum’s lawyers said she had been constructively dismissed and legal proceedings would be commenced against Oxfam in the Employment Tribunal.
Constructive dismissal is when an employee is forced to leave a job because the employer created a hostile work environment.
About 70 members of staff had signed a letter calling for Oxfam to investigate Dr Begum’s conduct, with several employees said to have resigned after falling out with her, the Times reported.
An Oxfam spokesperson said: “Oxfam GB’s trustees have a duty to review any complaints raised.
“In line with our policies a review was carried out by an independent specialist consultancy with recognised expertise in workplace culture, equity, and inclusion.
“We have great respect for colleagues who have raised concerns about culture. Their perspectives informed an independent review that took place.
“Oxfam’s commitment to openness and learning will strengthen our organisation and the work we do across the world.”
