Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Wilson
Published on 2024-03-01 07:48:43
Representative Foday E. Fahnbulleh of Electoral District #7 in Bong County has taken a strong stand against China Union Investment (Liberia) Bong Mines Company Ltd. He has vowed to take the company to the Supreme Court if the Legislature fails to address the issues at hand. During a recent onsite visit by the House’s joint committee, Rep. Fahnbulleh expressed his determination to hold China Union accountable for not fulfilling its obligations under the Mineral Development Agreement (MDA).
One of the key demands Rep. Fahnbulleh has made is for China Union to formally admit that they have failed to meet their social responsibilities as outlined in the MDA. He believes that this admission is crucial evidence that can be used in court to enforce compliance with the agreement. He emphasized the importance of lawmakers coming together to investigate major concession companies and ensure that they are meeting their obligations to the Liberian people.
Rep. Fahnbulleh is committed to pursuing legal action if necessary to ensure that China Union fulfills its obligations under the MDA. He expressed concerns about the deteriorating conditions in the community where the company operates, particularly the state of the Bong Mines Hospital. He highlighted the need for greater accountability and corporate responsibility from China Union and other companies operating in Liberia.
The lawmaker’s advocacy has been prompted by a longstanding issue regarding the MDA signed between the Liberian government and China Union. Despite specific functions outlined in the agreement, Rep. Fahnbulleh has observed a pattern of non-compliance by China Union, particularly in areas such as road infrastructure, healthcare, education, and employment of Liberians in senior management positions.
Following a series of public hearings and an onsite visit to the concession site, it was confirmed that China Union has not fully met its obligations under the MDA. The company has requested a ninety-day period to address some of the non-compliance issues, but Rep. Fahnbulleh remains skeptical about their commitment to fulfilling their obligations.
Rep. Fahnbulleh has raised concerns about the company’s failure to make required payments, such as land rental fees, scholarship funds, and county contributions. He has also called for immediate action to improve the Bong Mines Hospital, educational facilities, and community infrastructure. He emphasized the need for a thorough review of the concession agreement to ensure that time frames and measures are put in place to hold China Union accountable.
In conclusion, Rep. Fahnbulleh’s efforts to hold China Union accountable for its obligations under the MDA demonstrate his commitment to advocating for the welfare of the Liberian people. He remains steadfast in his resolve to seek justice through legal means if necessary, in order to ensure that corporations operating in Liberia are held to high standards of corporate responsibility and accountability.
Read the original article on New Republic Liberia
