The Nimba County Legislative Caucus has expressed its strong support for President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s recent decision to revoke ArcelorMittal Liberia’s exclusive rights to manage the Yekepa-Buchanan railway beyond 2030.
The caucus praised this action as a “significant move towards fostering national inclusivity, ensuring economic equity, and promoting fair resource management.”
The caucus also described the railway as a “vital national asset,” which the caucus emphasized the importance of providing transparent, multi-user access to the corridor that benefits all Liberians and prevents monopolistic control.
The group, according to a release, criticized ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) for a history of unmet commitments, citing issues such as environmental harm, unfulfilled promises, and inadequate community engagement, which raise concerns about the company’s future involvement.
“Allowing ArcelorMittal Liberia to maintain sole control of this essential infrastructure would have been a critical policy error,” the statement warned, noting that it could “hinder competition, exclude other potential investors, and restrict opportunities for growth led by Liberians.”
In addition to their support for the railway decision, the caucus also cautioned the government regarding any ongoing or future negotiations related to the renewal or modification of ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Mineral Development Agreement (MDA).
They urged the executive branch to act with “caution and due diligence,” advocating for public involvement, independent assessments, and strict compliance with environmental and social regulations.
“We cannot permit another agreement to be fast-tracked,” the statement said. “Any renegotiation must prioritize the long-term interests of the Liberian populace, especially those in mining-impacted communities like Nimba.”
Members of the Caucus said, nearly 20 years of unmet promises in areas such as job creation, infrastructure development, and fair revenue distribution was necessary. They stressed the need for communities most impacted by mining activities to have a significant role in shaping the future of the MDA.
In response to recent claims about a group of Nimba elders backing the AML agreement, the Legislative Caucus firmly denied any association or awareness of such a petition, stating that no official communication had been received to validate the endorsement.
“We will not accept or acknowledge any petition unless it is verified through a comprehensive countywide consultation involving all stakeholders,” the Caucus said in a statement.
They also cautioned against any coercion or incentives used to manipulate community members into signing such petitions, saying: “Only the unified voice of all Nimba citizens—including traditional leaders, civil society, youth, and women’s groups—should rightly influence the county’s future relationship with ArcelorMittal Liberia.
The statement was endorsed by Representatives Saye S. Mianah (District 8, Chairman), Dorwohn Twain Gleekia (District 6, Co-chairman), Nyahn G. Flomo (District 2, Secretary), Musa H. Bility (District 7, Treasurer), are recognized as prominent members of the Nimba Legislative Caucus. Senators Samuel G. Kogar and Nyan D. Twayen are advisors to the caucus.