ITI, River Cess County – Three of the six communities affected by the operations of Global Logistical Mining Company in Beawor District boycotted a crucial meeting on Wednesday, September 3, aimed at discussing the company’s 2% exploration benefit budget.
The communities that failed to attend the meeting — Solo Village, Safee Village, and Gbagbo Village — cited transportation issues and other logistical challenges. The remaining three communities — ITI, Kola Tree, and Gbokon — were present, leaving the group evenly split between attendees and absentees.
Former Bokon Township Commissioner, Benjamin Beair, and former Beawor District Commissioner, Emmanuel Gbae, expressed deep disappointment over the no-show. Speaking to reporters, both men sharply criticized the leadership of the committee representing the six affected communities, alleging that internal mismanagement led to the failed turnout.
Mr. Beair accused committee members of prioritizing personal interests over community welfare. He further alleged that some members had accepted bribes to favor outsiders for employment opportunities offered by the mining company, sidelining local residents.
“If this committee continues on this path, we risk public embarrassment and a breakdown in community trust,” Beair warned.
In response, the Chairman of the Affected Communities, Mr. Nathaniel Zor, dismissed the accusations as unfounded. He said all six communities had been informed and consulted prior to the meeting. According to Zor, the absent communities failed to attend due to reasons beyond the committee’s control.
“We remain committed to inclusive engagement and will work harder to ensure everyone is represented at the next meeting,” Zor assured.
River Cess County Superintendent, Byron Zahnwea, has since rescheduled the meeting for next Wednesday at 10:00 a.m., pledging that all six communities will be present.
The gathering was initially intended to bring together health officials, education stakeholders, and community representatives to discuss the fair distribution of the mining company’s 2% exploration benefits across the district.
