The Plenary of the House of Representatives has summoned Johanes T. Handojo, Golden Veroleum Liberia (GVL) Chief Executive Officer, and the company’s Vice President for Strategic and Stakeholder Engagement, Elvis G. Morris.
The two men are to appear before the full body on Thursday, June 10, to address concerns regarding the company’s failure to fulfill obligations contained in agreements with affected communities in Sinoe County.The decision followed a communication Sinoe County Electoral District #1 Representative, Thomas Romeo Quioh, submitted to the legislature.
Quioh expressed serious concerns over complaints received from residents and community leaders in Numonpo Statutory District regarding the implementation of the company’s social corporate responsibility commitments.
In his communication to Plenary, Rep. Quioh said, GVL has failed to honor certain terms and conditions contained in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the company and affected communities.
He said, the commitments were intended to promote community development, employment opportunities, harmonious relations, and the overall welfare of residents impacted by the company’s operations.
Quioh informed Plenary that the company’s failure to comply with the commitments has generated widespread dissatisfaction and frustration among community members, creating tensions that could potentially threaten peace and stability within the affected areas if not urgently addressed.
Rep. Quioh said, bringing the senior management before the House would provide lawmakers the opportunity to ascertain the facts surrounding the allegations, ensure corporate accountability, protect the interests of affected citizens, and facilitate an amicable resolution consistent with the laws and the principles of good governance.
Consequently, Plenary mandated Mr. Handojo and Mr. Morris to appear before the House of Representatives on Today, June 10, to provide a comprehensive explanation regarding the implementation of the company’s social corporate responsibility obligations and its compliance with the terms and conditions of the signed Memorandum of Understanding.
