-Demands Fair Terms for Liberia
A civil society coalition, One Voice Liberia, has expressed concern over what it calls “reckless concessions” in ongoing rail access negotiations between the Liberian government, ArcelorMittal (AML), and Ivanhoe Atlantic (HPX). The group accuses some of President Joseph Boakai’s advisors of pushing for quick, lopsided deals—echoing Liberia’s past mistakes when weak negotiations cost the nation dearly.
In a statement over the weekend, the CSO slammed attempts by officials to revive the infamous “Oui, Oui, Bon, Bon” era—a reference to Liberia’s historically weak bargaining with foreign powers. The phrase mocks 19th-century negotiations where Liberian officials, outmatched by French colonialists, allegedly agreed to territorial losses with little resistance.
The group warns that today’s talks risk repeating history, citing past concession deals in mining and agriculture that left Liberia with ghost towns like Bomi Hills and Yekepa once profits dried up. “Times have changed,” the statement reads. “Liberia cannot afford another raw deal.”
Boakai’s Vision vs. AML’s Demands
President Boakai, who witnessed Liberia’s boom-and-bust cycles firsthand, has vowed to audit existing agreements and secure fair terms. His administration established the National Railway Authority (NRA) via Executive Orders 112 and 136, mandating the Yekepa-Buchanan rail corridor become an open-access, multi-user route—critical for regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
But tensions are flaring within the Interministerial Concession Committee (IMCC). While the government proposes letting AML operate the rail until 2029 (when an independent operator would take over), AML is pushing for a 25-year extension post-2030—a move HPX and activists say violates Liberian law.
Inside the Battle
Sources reveal a sharp divide, as pro-Boakai faction wants the rail to boost Liberia’s economy, unlocking access to untapped regions (Bong, Western Cluster) and empowering local trade. AML allies argue “a bird in hand is worth two in the bush,” favoring AML’s continued control.
Critics allege these officials—including key advisors and ruling party allies—are prioritizing short-term gains over national interest. The rift has sparked a media war, with pro-reform figures facing smear campaigns.
Audit AML’s 18-Year “Losses”
One Voice Liberia demands transparency, noting AML’s dubious track record: No declared profits, Debt loopholes, and Workers still live in converted containers. In 18 years, yet ore is sold to its parent company at set prices. Parent firm takes loans at fixed rates, passing costs to AML Liberia. Workers still live in converted containers—proof of neglect despite decades of operation.
The rail corridor isn’t just about minerals—it’s a lifeline for cross-border trade with Guinea, ECOWAS integration, and rural development. With HPX refusing AML’s terms and legal clouds looming, Boakai faces a defining choice: Will Liberia break from its past, or repeat it?
