By Libya Herald reporter.
Tunis, 1 May 2017:
Abubaker Elfortia, who was replaced as chairman of Afriqiyah Airways four weeks ago, is challenging the decision.
“I’m still legally in charge,” Elfortia has told the Libya Herald.
Currently operating out of his home city of Misrata for “security reasons”, he said the airline’s directors had been “forced” to issue the order replacing him by Abdulhakim Al-Fituri Faris. He indicated that legal proceedings were being pursued to reverse the order which had been made under militia pressure.
“I hope it will be fixed soon.”
Growing discord over Elfortia’s no-nonsense managerial style resulted last November in a number of staff demonstrating outside the carrier’s Tripoli office calling for his dismissal. Two weeks ago, following his replacement, a company statement welcoming the Faris’ appointment suggested that Afriqiyah would now move forward and prosper.
However, his tough approach is seen by other members as having kept Afriqiyah flying during the present crisis. One member, who paid tribute to the majority of staff who had ensured operations ran smoothly despite the management turbulence, called those responsible for Elfortia’s sacking “opportunists” and warned of strikes ahead if he were not reinstated.
