The Plenary of the House of Representatives has summoned the Chief Executive Officer of Golden Veroleum Liberia (GVL), Mr. Johanes T. Handojo, and the company’s Vice President for Strategic and Stakeholder Engagement, Mr. Elvis G. Morris, to appear before the full body on Thursday to address concerns regarding the company’s alleged failure to fulfill obligations contained in agreements with affected communities in Sinoe County.
The decision followed a communication submitted by Sinoe County Electoral District #1 Representative, Hon. Thomas Romeo Quioh, who 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, Representative Quioh stated that Golden Veroleum Liberia has allegedly failed to honor certain terms and conditions contained in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the company and affected communities. According to him, the commitments were intended to promote community development, employment opportunities, harmonious relations, and the overall welfare of residents impacted by the company’s operations.
The lawmaker informed Plenary that the company’s alleged failure to comply with these 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.
Representative Quioh emphasized that bringing the company’s senior management before the House would provide lawmakers with an 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 of Liberia and the principles of good governance.
Consequently, Plenary mandated Mr. Johanes T. Handojo and Mr. Elvis G. Morris to appear before the House of Representatives on Thursday 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.
The House of Representatives remains committed to ensuring that concession agreements and community benefit commitments are fully respected and that the rights and welfare of citizens are adequately protected.
