BP says TNK-BP chief barred from office by Russia

A court in the Russian capital Thursday barred the chief executive officer of troubled Russian joint venture, TNK-BP, from office for two years.

BP said it was disappointed by the court's decision on Thursday, adding that Robert Dudley will retain his position until completion of an appeal process.

"We will appeal with the Moscow Appelate Court within 10 days," TNK-BP spokeswoman Marina Dracheva said. The decision is not final until the appeal is filed and considered, she said.

Dudley will remain CEO of TNK-BP pending completion of an appeal process, BP confirmed.

Moscow's Presnensky district court disqualified Dudley for failure to obey instructions of the labor watchdog, TNK-BP said.

American-born Dudley left Russia last month when his work permit was not renewed, but has been continuing to work as CEO from outside the country.

BP has been battling Russian shareholders for control of the company for months.

A consortium of Russian shareholders in the 50-50 joint venture with BP have repeatedly called for Dudley's removal, saying he has mismanaged the company in favor of BP's interests.

BP has accused the Russian owners of using corporate raider tactics to wrest control of the company. "We believe this is clearly a further example of administrative activity orchestrated by the other shareholders of BP," said Sheila Williams, a spokeswoman for the company.

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