As the group’s largest shareholder, the government – which holds a 53.5% stake in the company – has reportedly grown impatient with Bellens, who criticised the Belgian federal and regional authorities last year.
Reports suggest Bellens criticised Belgian Prime Minister Elio Di Rupo, claiming he acted like a kid coming for his present from Santa Claus in receiving annual dividends from Belgacom.
A spokesman has said the government had not yet taken a decision over the future of Bellens, with a meeting planned for today.
Bellens was appointed as Belgacom CEO in March 2003, and his mandate is scheduled to run until 2015, after his contract was extended in 2009.
Present CFO Ray Stewart and the head of the group’s consumer unit, Dominique Leroy, have been reported as possible candidates to replace Bellens.
Investors are said to have been supportive of Bellens’ job at the company during a turbulent time for European operators.
