Microsoft shareholders demand explanation over allegations against Bill Gates

While Apple is cleaning up the aftermath of internal policy searches of its own employees, Microsoft has worse problems looming. Ahead of Microsoft's annual shareholder meeting later this month, the company's investors questioned management about Microsoft's internal policies, which they say have allowed inappropriate behavior in Microsoft founder Bill Gates' workplace.

Proxy firm Glass Lewis is seeking the removal of John Thompson, Microsoft's chairman from 2014 to 2021 and a current member of the company's board of directors. Thompson led the investigation into allegations of misconduct against Gates as the company's CEO. Investor firm Arjuna Capital has even said it will demand an independent and transparent investigation into allegations of gender discrimination and sexual harassment at the company.

"Complaints of inappropriate attitudes and sexual innuendo toward Microsoft employees by Bill Gates only heighten concerns by calling into question the culture created by senior management and the role of the board of directors as a watchdog to hold accountable those involved in these allegations," reads part of the text of the petition Arjuna Capital. "Investors are concerned that Microsoft may face a culture of systematic sexual harassment, which in turn could be a barrier to attracting and retaining talented employees."

Microsoft, for its part, is recommending that shareholder meeting attendees vote against the proposal because it duplicates measures the company has already taken. Microsoft also plans to begin publishing annual reports on gender discrimination and sexual harassment. Shareholders are expected to express their views on the issue on the 30th of this month, when the next meeting is held. The allegations themselves relate to the years when Gates announced his divorce from his wife Melinda Gates.

Source: businessinsider