By Grace Q. Bryant
The House of Representatives has summoned Bea Mountain Concession Company (BMCC) to appear before full plenary on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 10:00 AM.
The decision follows a preliminary report from the House’s Committee on Investment and Concession, which examined BMCC’s compliance with recommendations issued after a March 12, 2024, incident at the company’s operational site.
The Committee’s report highlighted critical concerns related to workplace safety, environmental management, and corporate social responsibility. These issues were identified during an investigation conducted by a Joint Committee, which later provided BMCC with specific recommendations aimed at aligning its operations with regulatory and best practice standards.
Despite multiple official queries, including letters dated February 12 and February 20, BMCC has failed to adequately respond to the Committee’s inquiries.
This lack of cooperation raises concerns about the company’s commitment to addressing key safety and environmental issues, leading the Committee to view BMCC’s actions as an obstruction to transparency and accountability in concession operations.
In light of BMCC’s non-responsiveness, the Committee on Investment and Concession chaired by Rep. Fody Fahnbulleh, has called for the company’s summons to plenary, where it must provide a comprehensive update on its compliance status.
The Committee remains particularly concerned about BMCC’s failure to implement necessary safety measures, which could pose risks to workers and surrounding communities.
Additionally, unresolved environmental concerns continue to threaten the local ecosystem and residents who rely on natural resources for their livelihoods. The Committee emphasizes the urgency of addressing these issues to prevent further negative impacts on both the environment and public health.
To ensure greater accountability, the Committee encourages active participation from various stakeholders, including community representatives, labor unions, and environmental advocacy groups. A multi-stakeholder approach is deemed essential in monitoring concessionaires and promoting sustainable development.
The House of Representatives reaffirms its commitment to protecting the interests of the Liberian people by ensuring that all concessionaires, including BMCC, operate within the established legal framework.
Lawmakers have pledged to take decisive actions in enforcing compliance and safeguarding the well-being of citizens.
