A controversy is brewing in Nimba County after Senator Nya Twayen publicly criticized ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) for allegedly holding a “secret meeting” with more than 25 lawmakers, without the knowledge of key members of the Legislature.
In a statement posted online, Sen. Twayen, who serves on both the Senate’s Concession Committee and the Nimba Legislative Caucus, expressed surprise and disapproval over the gathering.
He claimed the meeting was organized without his knowledge, despite his oversight role in concession-related matters.
“Unbeknownst to me as a member of the Concession Committee and the Nimba Legislative Caucus, ArcelorMittal has more than 25 lawmakers visiting Nimba County for a secret meeting,” he wrote. “I am very surprised to see my legislative colleagues invited by AML for reasons ‘San-oblivious.’”
Twayen’s remarks have raised fresh concerns about transparency and possible conflicts of interest, particularly as AML is currently engaged in renegotiations over its mining concession agreement with the government.
Lawmakers have long faced public suspicion over alleged acceptance of “brown envelopes” to influence policy decisions.
While ArcelorMittal has not yet responded officially, sources close to the company say the gathering was a routine familiarization tour and not meant to be covert or exclusive.
However, the lack of communication with relevant legislative stakeholders has drawn sharp criticism.
Civil society groups are now calling for an independent probe into the lawmakers’ visit.
The incident has reignited debate over corporate influence in national politics, legislative accountability, and the future of AML’s operations in Liberia.
