Kiazolu Threatens Drastic Action Against Dormant Concessionaires

By: Fiona Benson Kollie

“Dormancy has over the year undermined our country progress, and we will ensure that all dormant concessionaires are brought to book,” NBC new head- Hanson Kiazolu said, during his taking over ceremony, held at the National Bureau of Concession (NBC) in Congo Town.

Kiazolu said too many concession agreements have remained inactive for years; adding, “no activities, no jobs and no revenue,” which he said is unacceptable and needs to stop; stressing that dormancy undermines the country’s development and also deprives the citizens of opportunities. “As I takeover today, as Director General, my first task will be contacting dormant concessionaires to know the progress ,  challenges and way forward, to understand why they have failed to act and to ensure that all taxes, surface rental fees and other obligations are brought to current,”  Kiazolu said.

He also threatened drastic actions against concessions that will remain dormant without justification, adding, “They will be subject to review where necessary, and termination will be the last auction.”

 He also noted that strengthening, monitoring and enforcement will be key, stressing that concession is not mere contract on paper but an instrument through which government   generates revenue, secures jobs and builds infrastructures. 

” The bureau will not tolerate concessions that only exist on paper; under my leadership, we will establish reporting requirements, conduct regular audit to ensure how transparent concessions are managed,” DG Kiazolu emphasized. 

 He further said the goal of the NBC is to create a culture of transparency and accountability to enable concessionaires to know how to honor the commitments, where citizens can see the benefits of agreements being secured by the government.

Moreover, he  promised to review all concession agreements for compliance with taxes and labor law   across the country, stressing that every concessionaire needs to meet its obligations, including paying taxes, honoring labor standard and contributing to the welfare of the citizens; noting, “Compliance is not an option.”

He, at the same time, commanded President Joseph N. Boakai for the trust imposed in him and promised to ensure the ARREST Agenda succeed through the NBC that is clothed with authority that the citizen of Liberia get their fair share  of their resources.