The head of global ports operator DP World, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, has stepped down amid intensifying scrutiny following the establishment of links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Sulayem's resignation, effective immediately, came as newly-released documents detailed hundreds of email exchanges between him and Epstein over the span of a decade.
While being named in the files does not imply wrongdoing, the pressure surrounding his position has increased in light of the information. DP World announced that Essa Kazim will assume the role of chairman and Yuvraj Narayan will take over as CEO, subsequently removing Sulayem's photograph from the company’s website.
The global logistics giant, which operates port terminals around the globe and is instrumental to international trade, has faced backlash from business partners in recent days, leading to the UK development finance agency and Canada’s La Caisse halting new investment in the firm. Further complicating matters, the Prince of Wales' Earthshot project has come under scrutiny after Sulayem’s association with Epstein emerged.
Revealing a long-standing relationship, the emails indicate an extensive correspondence where business ideas were shared, including plans for an 'Islamic' digital currency. Additionally, the communications reflect a personal rapport that raised eyebrows, including discussions about health matters and personal anecdotes.
Further revelations detail conversations regarding various women, encounters with political figures, and solicitation of assistance in lobbying efforts for business deals, including a contentious project involving the London Gateway port. Despite the fallout, there is no indication of wrongdoing from Lord Mandelson, the UK business secretary involved.
