Former Minister of Mines, Wilmot M. Paye, has voiced strong criticism of Vice President Jeremiah Koung’s recent interview on state-run ELBC.
Paye described Koung expressed statements on several national issues as “hilariously theatrical, laden with contradictions regarding government’s policy on foreign investments and concessions.”
In a statement released on his official Facebook page Paye, expressed his amusement at Koung’s assertions, particularly his repeated claims of having “cleared it with the President,” suggesting a questionable alignment between Koung’s statements and the official government policy.
Paye insinuated that while Koung enjoys a level of freedom not afforded to previous leaders, there may be discrepancies in the communication of the administration’s policies.
He highlighted a key contradiction, which he said, Koung’s assertion that the current administration would not seek to revise concessions made by the previous government.
He also argued that such actions would render “Liberia hostile to foreign investments.”
The stance, Paye said, “directly opposes President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s established policy advocating for the review of all concessions since he took office.
Prior to becoming the minister of Mines and Energy, Mr. Paye served as chair of governing Unity Party.
He claimed that Koung’s remarks seem misaligned with the President’s consistent messaging during cabinet meetings, which advocates for a reassessment of concession agreements.
Paye argued further that all members of the government team, particularly those in significant positions, like the Vice President, must communicate in a manner that reflects established policy positions.
He expressed skepticism about the authenticity of Koung’s claims regarding presidential approval for his statements during the interview.
In addressing the specifics of the Amended Mineral Development Agreement concerning ArcelorMittal-Liberia, Paye said, while Koung stated that the company would pay US$500,000 annually, “this figure is misleading.”
He added: The previous Agreement had stipulated a mere US$50,000 for a Class ‘A’ Mining License over a 25-year period.
Meanwhile, Mr. Paye has criticized the government for not “adequately revising the fee structures as mandated by new regulations.”
He argued that locking licensing fees into concession agreements weakens regulatory oversight and accountability.
Paye however, reflected on the ongoing discussions surrounding the Putu Iron Ore Mining project, suggesting that the venture presents a crucial opportunity for Liberia to establish a model for future negotiations.
He urged the government to learn from prior mistakes, and not to invoke the “Change of Control” provision that could jeopardize the country’s stake in the project.
Paye called for a paradigm shift in the government’s approach to negotiations, insisting that Liberia must adopt a more assertive stance in its dealings with foreign investors.
“What we need to overcome… is to start believing in ourselves, at least for this once.”
He emphasized the importance of negotiating from a position of strength rather than fear.
Paye’s remarks are likely to resonate with many Liberians, who are concerned about the country’s economic sovereignty and the management of its natural resources.
His critique sends a clear message to the government that consistent communication and adherence to established policies are vital for fostering a stable investment climate.