• by David Goetzl  @dgoetzl, June 30, 2008

WPP is working to divest its minority position in a Y&R-branded unit in Zimbabwe, as it emerged that a top agency executive had been advising the country's controversial leader, Robert Mugabe.

WPP said in a widely reported statement last week that it was "extremely alarmed" when "allegations" emerged that the Y&R-linked firm "may be advising Robert Mugabe and his political party."

WPP said it is now working to dispose of its 25% stake in the firm "as soon as possible." It noted that it has "no legal control" over the agency due to its one-quarter position.

The holding group said its investigation has determined that a senior executive had been "advising President Mugabe in a personal capacity."

"Nonetheless we want no association with this effort," WPP said in a statement.

Mugabe, who is 81 and has ruled for 28 years, has sparked outrage by holding an election that some have criticized as spurious, with voters intimidated and forced to vote his way. The U.S. has said it will pursue further sanctions against Zimbabwe.