By: Archie Boan
Senator Numene T. H. Bartekwa of Grand Kru County has formally written the Plenary of the Liberian Senate requesting the de-ratification of the Hummingbird concession agreements, accusing the company of total non-performance since the concession was approved.
In his communication to the Senate, Senator Bartekwa argued that Hummingbird has failed to carry out a single aspect of its obligations under the concession, despite being granted legal authority to operate. He described the company as “parading with suitcases in search of a builder that cannot be seen,” a situation he said clearly demonstrates a lack of readiness and capacity to execute the project.
The Grand Kru lawmaker warned that the company’s inaction is inflicting serious hardship on citizens, particularly in the area of job creation and other social and economic benefits ordinarily expected under a Mineral Development Agreement (MDA).
According to Senator Bartekwa, the dormant concession is also blocking genuine investment opportunities in the county. He noted that whenever other companies express interest in operating in Grand Kru, the Ministry of Mines and Energy reportedly turns them away on the grounds that a concession has already been granted to Hummingbird.
“This situation has effectively locked up our resources without delivering a single benefit to the people,” the senator stressed, adding that Grand Kru continues to suffer economically while a non-performing company holds exclusive rights over the concession area.
Following its presentation to Plenary, Senator Bartekwa’s communication was forwarded to the Senate Committee on Judiciary for review and onward action, as the legislature considers whether the concession should be revoked.
