Grand Cape Mount County, Liberia – In the wake of the deadly protests in February 2024, residents of Grand Cape Mount County and the workers’ union are urging the Liberian government and Bea Mountain Mining Corporation (BMMC) to convene an urgent roundtable dialogue with community leaders and civil society organizations.
The protests, which turned violent and resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, underscored growing tensions between the community and BMMC over grievances related to worker exploitation, environmental degradation, and perceived neglect of corporate social responsibilities. The unrest left the region grappling with social and economic upheaval, with calls for immediate intervention to address longstanding issues.
A 38-count petition outlining the grievances was submitted to the Government of Liberia, BMMC, and several civil society organizations. The document detailed allegations of unsafe working conditions, environmental damage, and the mining company’s lack of meaningful investment in community development.
Thompson Mahatma Kiatamba, spokesperson for the Kinjor Advocacy Movement, emphasized the urgency of resolving these issues during a statement issued on January 22, 2025. “The protests were a cry for help,” Kiatamba declared. “The demands reflect a deep sense of frustration and urgency. It is time for the government and Bea Mountain Mining Corporation to engage in meaningful dialogue with the citizens and workers affected by these operations.”
The petition calls for the immediate organization of a roundtable forum to open communication channels between stakeholders and work toward lasting solutions. Advocates argue that such a dialogue is crucial to prioritizing the rights and needs of the affected communities while fostering transparency, accountability, and mutual respect.
The protests have highlighted systemic issues in Liberia’s mining sector, including economic inequality, violations of workers’ rights, and environmental concerns. Local residents have voiced alarm over the ecological damage caused by mining activities, alleging that these operations have significantly affected their health and livelihoods. Workers, meanwhile, have reported exploitative practices and unsafe conditions.
“We cannot turn a blind eye to the plight of the people of Kinjor,” said Morris Kiazolu, Chairman of the Kinjor Advocacy Movement. “This dialogue is essential for healing the wounds caused by these protests, rebuilding trust, and ensuring that both the environment and the people are treated with dignity.”
The Kinjor Advocacy Movement has called for national and international involvement to ensure the fairness and effectiveness of the proposed dialogue. Organizations such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia, the National Human Rights Commission, and other civil society groups have been invited to oversee the process and guarantee meaningful outcomes.
Community leaders remain hopeful that a collaborative approach will prevent future violence and foster sustainable development. Kiatamba described the proposed dialogue as a critical opportunity to restore peace and build a more equitable future for Kinjor and its neighboring communities.
The Kinjor Advocacy Movement has formally addressed its petition and request for dialogue with the Liberian government, BMMC, and key international stakeholders, urging them to demonstrate their commitment to the local population’s well-being by responding promptly and positively to the call for action.
