KINGSTON, Jamaica — Popular medical practitioner, Dr Michael Banbury, has resigned as the chief executive officer of the privately-owned Medical Associates Hospital (MAH).

It is understood that Dr Banbury stepped down last week after being the hospital CEO for more than eight years.

Dr Leo-Paul Powell, who has since been named to act in the position, confirmed Dr Banbury’s resignation to OBSERVER ONLINE yesterday.

Dr Powell, who is a member of the MAH’s board of directors, said he began acting in the position on Saturday. “It’s just a temporary appointment until an appropriate replacement can be found,” Dr Powell said.

The acting CEO declined to say Dr Banbury’s reason for resigning, but OBSERVER ONLINE sources have revealed that this is due to a possible conflict of interest.

Efforts to get in touch with Dr Banbury have so far proven futile.

The sources said that Dr Banbury is a director of First Rock group of companies. First Rock recently bought one of several hotels which are near the hospital. It is understood that this hotel will be added to the MAH portfolio, causing a possible conflict of interest on Dr Banbury’s behalf.