Matt Mullenweg replaces Automattic board after 33-hour coup attempt

Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg just replaced his board of directors after an internal attempt to oust him failed in 33 hours.

Earlier this month, Automattic's board voted to place Mullenweg on leave without warning. Mullenweg used his 84% voting control to retake the company, remove the directors involved, and fire both his CFO and chief legal officer. According to TechCrunch, Mullenweg announced the new board to staff on Slack this week. The new lineup includes Silo sci-fi author Hugh Howey and two co-founders of the defunct social app IRL.

Why it matters: Controlling 84% of the voting shares means Mullenweg runs the company, full stop. The sudden board wipeout comes while Automattic is locked in high-stakes litigation with hosting provider WP Engine.

Know this: Mullenweg reportedly told employees that under Delaware law, he is currently serving as Automattic's CEO, President, Treasurer, and Secretary.

Boardrooms can vote all they want, but voting shares get the final say.