
Nimba – Internal Affairs Minister, Francis S. Nyumalin, has warned, that the government will not tolerate act of lawlessness from Traditional Brush Masters, who he said are in the habit of intimidating and obstructing the operations of companies in the country.
Minister Nyumalin stressed that such actions contravene the civil administration structure of government and do not benefit the country, its people, and investors.
The warning comes after a recent stalemate between aggrieved affected community members in Nimba County who were agitated against Arcelor Mittal Operations in the area.
The situation led to the Traditional Brush Masters setting up roadblocks, which disrupted the company’s operations.
However, Minister Nyumalin following an intervention, that finally initiated a dialogue between traditional leaders and AML Management, cautioned traditional leaders across the country to refrain from circumstances that conflict with the rule of law.
Speaking in Nimba County following the dialogue with aggrieved stakeholders, Minister Nyumalin underscored the need for civil matters to be left with local authorities while cautioning traditional leaders against interfering in issues involving companies and affected communities.
Meanwhile, the community is said to be calm following the negotiations led by Minister Nyumalin, and the company has returned to resume normal operations.
As part of the agreement reached during the negotiations, the company has committed itself to immediately begin road rehabilitation work in affected communities, among other demands.
As part of the commitment reached, Government Representatives and Inter-agencies will work with Arcelor Mittal and the affected communities to address immediate demands within 30 days.
At the same time, Minister Nyumalin regurgitated the government’s commitment to work with Arcelor Mittal to implement its concession agreement with the people of Nimba County.
Minister Nyumalin likewise urged community stakeholders, to refrain from resorting to violence as a means of seeking redress and emphasized the importance of respecting the rule of law.