The House of Representatives Chairman on Mines, Energy, Natural Resources and Environment, Representative Eugine JM Kollie, is requesting legislative approval for the amendment of key sections of the 2000 Mineral and Mining Law of Liberia.
According to a statement issued by the House Press Bureau, Representative Kollie wants amendment of sections 4.2, 6.6, 8.2, and 17.1 of the law. According to him, it has been more than 24 years since the last revision was adopted and approved.
He said the prolonged duration makes sections 4.2, 6.6, 8.2 and 17.1, including other relevant sections of the law, to not be in conformity with standardized international best practices of the governance of the mineral and mining sector.
The lawmaker said, as per the current law, foreign nationals are open to acquire Class B Mining License in Liberia, which is hindering ordinary Liberians from fairly competing in semi-industrial mining activities.
The House of Representatives Chairman on Lands, Mines, Natural Resources and Environment, who is also Bong County’s district #5 Representative, said it puts Liberians at the disadvantage of foreigners who are reportedly milking the country’s minerals.
He said many countries within the sub-region have revised the reported practice, and their citizens are benefiting from such revision.
Representative Eugine JM Kollie said the proper governance of mineral resources has the propensity to strengthen economic growth and promote holistic development.
Elaborating on leadership Wednesday, July 31, Kollie said consequent to the review and amendment of the mining Law, the Government of Liberia (GOL) shall adopt and take seize of the following policy as a strong recommendation from the 55th Legislature.
He recommended that there be no alliance to own a Class B Mining License in Liberia, like is being done in the sub-region; a Liberian should serve as the General Manager to every Class A company within the Republic; government should consider acquiring majority shares (51%) of every Class A and B company; government should have the right to terminate a mineral right for non-performance companies; and a Section 6.6 F, where companies will prioritize local businesses (equipment) instead of purchasing out of country.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives is poised to take an immediate action surrounding the plea of one of its members upon resumption of its 3rd quarter.