Liverpool City Council chief executive John Ajaka’s employment was terminated with immediate effect during a confidential session yesterday.
The Liverpool Leader has reported that the decision was made with a deciding vote from Liverpool mayor Ned Mannoun, with councillors Betty Green, Charishma Kaliyanda, Peter Harle, Ali Karnib and Karress Rhodes voting against the termination.
Mr Ajaka’s dismissal follows misconduct allegations during a budget meeting and concerns over a “fractured relationship” between councillors and staff.
The decision has sparked controversy, with some councillors expressing no confidence in the process and concern for its impact on council staff and the community.
Concerns have been raised about the timing of the decision before the conclusion of an investigation being conducted by the Office of Local Government.