-Seeks Senate Intervention
The Plenary of the Liberian Senate has received a formal communication from
Senator J. Alex Tyler of Bomi County, who also serves as Chairman of the
Western Region Legislative Caucus.
In his letter, Senator Tyler expressed
serious concerns regarding the operations of Western Cluster Liberia Limited
(WCL), an iron ore mining company active in the western region of Liberia.
Senator Tyler outlined what he described as gross violations of the Mineral
Development Agreement (MDA) signed in 2011 between the Government of Liberia
and WCL. He alleged that the company has failed to adhere to key provisions of
the agreement, particularly those concerning the welfare of communities in the
affected counties, Bomi, Grand Cape Mount, and Gbarpolu.
According to Senator Tyler, WCL has neglected its obligation to make social
development and community payments owed to residents of the region.
Despite multiple engagements and growing public frustration, the company has
allegedly proceeded with preparations to resume full operations without
settling its outstanding commitments or renegotiating terms with stakeholders.
“The people of Bomi, Grand Cape Mount, and Gbarpolu have waited patiently
for justice. The company continues to exploit our resources while refusing to
deliver on its promises,” Senator Tyler stated.
He further described WCL’s conduct as a sign of disrespect not only toward
the local population but also toward the authority of the Liberian state,
urging immediate legislative intervention.
Following the reading of the communication, Senator Edwin M. Snowe Jr., also
of Bomi County and a fellow member of the Western Region Legislative Caucus,
moved that the matter be referred to the Senate Committees on Judiciary and
Investment.
The motion, which received overwhelming support, mandates the joint
committees to carry out a comprehensive investigation into WCL’s operations,
assess the extent of the alleged violations, and report their findings and
recommendations to the Senate plenary within two weeks.
Western Cluster Liberia Limited operates in Bomi County under a Mineral
Development Agreement signed with the Government of Liberia in 2011.
