Nokia-Microsoft backlash begins

A grassroots challenge to Nokia's proposed strategic alliance with Microsoft has begun, and an open letter has been sent to the telecom giant's shareholders proposing a rebellion at May's annual general meeting.

Stephen Elop and Steve Ballmer: Nokia and Microsoft chiefs agree partnership
Stephen Elop and Steve Ballmer: Nokia and Microsoft chiefs agree partnership

last week. It enables Nokia to free up its software investment, and Microsoft to extend its mobile operating system market share.

in a leaked staff memo.

The campaign, dubbed , proposes ousting chief executive Stephen Elop, investing heavily in research and development, and scaling back the partnership with Microsoft to cover just North America.

It is not clear who is behind the campaign. The letter said: "We are a group of nine young Nokia shareholders. All of us have worked with Nokia in different capacities in the past."

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