CAPITOL HILL – The House of Representatives has mandated its committees on Mines and Energy, Concessions, Judiciary, and Ways, Means, and Finance to investigate the long-standing Putu Iron Ore Mining Company deal and report back in two weeks.
The decision was reached during the appearance of key government officials, including Mines and Energy Minister Wilmot Paye, National Investment Commission (NIC) Chairman Jeff Blibo, and Deputy Minister for Economic and Legal Affairs at the Ministry of Justice, Cllr. Charles Karmo. However, none of them stated why the project has been delayed or when mining operations will commence in Grand Gedeh County.
‘A Shame and a Disappointment’
During the discussion, lawmakers expressed frustration over the 15-year inactivity of the Putu Iron Ore project, with many calling it a major setback to national development.
Grand Gedeh County District 1 Representative Jeremiah Sokan Sr., who initiated the call for legislative intervention, condemned the prolonged delay, describing it as an injustice to the country.
“This issue is a shame and a total disappointment. It is unacceptable that for 15 years, we have allowed a few individuals to hold the country’s resources hostage while our people continue to suffer,” Sokan stated.
He emphasized that the stalled project has hindered job creation, infrastructure development, and economic growth, particularly in Grand Gedeh County and the southeastern region.
“The southeastern region needs this investment. The country needs this investment. It will create jobs, bring electricity, improve road connectivity, and boost national revenue,” he added.
Committees to Review Key Issues
Following the heated debate, the plenary tasked its committees with investigating four critical concerns:
- What steps are being taken to finalize Silver Star’s investment in the Mineral Development Agreement (MDA)?
- What is required for Silver Star to relinquish the agreement?
- Are there serious investors ready to take over the mining site?
- How soon can operations resume at the Putu Iron Ore mine?
Sokan insisted that the legislature must take a firm stance, saying, “Our position is unwavering. We want to see this MDA canceled in the next 90 days, and we want a serious investor to take over in the next six months.”
Call for National Support
The Grand Gedeh lawmaker urged the media and the public to join efforts in demanding swift action, warning that further delays would continue to harm the country’s economy.
“This is not just a Grand Gedeh issue. It is not just a southeastern issue. It is a national issue,” he stressed.
Sokan underscored that reviving the Putu mine would create employment, enhance infrastructure, and boost national revenue.
“Once Putu is operational, many people will find jobs, their lives will change, and the revenue of this country will increase. We need this mine to start working—not tomorrow, not next year, but now,” he declared.
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