GANTA, NIMBA COUNTY – The Joint Legislative Committee on Mineral Development Agreements (MDA) has strongly rejected accusations by Nimba County Senator Nya D. Twayen, Jr., who alleged that the lawmakers’ current oversight mission in Nimba is a “secret meeting” with ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML).
In a statement issued Saturday from Ganta, the Committee described Senator Twayen’s claims as “reckless misinformation and political agitation,” stressing that their visit to AML’s concession area is part of a duly-sanctioned legislative oversight exercise.
“Our current mission to the ArcelorMittal concession was neither secret nor done under the shadow of dark,” the Committee said. “This official oversight visit was communicated, coordinated, and planned in advance with the relevant authorities. There is nothing clandestine about legislators inspecting a major concession that is critical to our nation’s economy.”
The lawmakers said Senator Twayen’s social media post misrepresents their work and “maligns the integrity of the Legislature.” They dismissed his suggestion that the trip is a “luxury tour,” insisting it is a fact-finding mission aimed at verifying the company’s compliance with its Mineral Development Agreement.
The Committee also rejected what it described as Twayen’s push for “open hostility” toward AML, Liberia’s largest private investor and employer. According to the lawmakers, AML currently provides more than 5,000 jobs, with its ongoing Phase II expansion expected to add another 5,000.
“We cannot protect Liberia’s image or interests by engaging in knee-jerk antagonism against investors,” the statement continued. “Yes, we will hold AML accountable for every violation, but we believe in firm, constructive engagement, not destructive confrontation.”
At the same time, the lawmakers acknowledged concerns about AML’s compliance record, including unfulfilled commitments on community development and infrastructure. They pledged to document these lapses during the visit and ensure corrective measures are taken.
“Our responsibility is to fix problems, not foment outrage,” the Committee noted. “We can demand compliance without resorting to public insults and threats that scare away investors and jeopardize thousands of jobs.”
The Committee called on Senator Twayen to end what it termed a “smear campaign” and instead join colleagues in addressing the real issues through dialogue and legislative processes, rather than social media.
In conclusion, the lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that Liberia’s natural resource agreements translate into jobs, infrastructure, and services for citizens.
“Our people deserve results, not drama,” the statement read. “With unity and measured leadership, we will ensure ArcelorMittal delivers on its promises while safeguarding the jobs and livelihoods of Liberians.”
The statement was signed by Senator Numene T.H. Bartekwa, Chairman, and Senator Simeon B. Taylor, Co-Chair.
