The House of Representatives Committee on Mines and Energy has denied Representative J. Marvin Cole’s push to close Huiren Mining Company operations in Bong County, citing legal restrictions under Liberia’s mining law.
The decision follows an investigation led by Committee Chair Jeremiah Sokan of Grand Gedeh County District One into complaints by Rep. Cole regarding the operations of Huiren and H&K Mining Companies and their impact on local Class “C” miners in Bong County District Three.
Rep. Sokan stated that the committee conducted extensive stakeholder engagements, including consultations with the Ministry of Mines and Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), representatives from both mining companies, and the complainant. Field visits to the affected mining sites on March 22 revealed the complex interplay between artisanal miners and licensed companies.
The committee concluded that Rep. Cole’s request to upgrade Class “C” miners to Class “B” status in areas under Huiren Mining’s Class “A” exploration license is not legally permissible. “Such a move would contravene Liberia’s mining regulations governing mineral rights,” Rep. Sokan said.
Acknowledging the economic reliance of local miners on artisanal operations, the committee proposed a compromise: H&K Mining Company will coexist with Class “C” miners, who are encouraged to form cooperatives to legally expand and modernize their activities.
The committee also addressed Rep. Cole’s concerns over community benefits, recommending collaboration between the lawmaker, local communities, and the company to identify development projects that support the district.
Despite the committee’s findings, Rep. Cole publicly opposed the ruling during a live press conference, citing ongoing compliance and community issues. Sources report that he and some local leaders threatened to release traditional “Bush Master” (Country Devil) figures at the company’s mining sites if operations continue.
Rep. Sokan expressed appreciation for stakeholder cooperation throughout the investigation and confirmed that the committee’s final report will be submitted to House leadership for further action.
