GANTA, NIMBA COUNTY, LIBERIA – Six Liberian senators are holding a closed-door meeting with executives of ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) at the company’s facility in Nimba County, in a session that has drawn sharp criticism and public attention. According to OK FM, the delegation includes Senators Saah Joseph of Montserrado, Joseph Jallah of Lofa, Botoe Kanneh of Gbarpolu, Simeon Taylor of Grand Cape Mount, Numene Bartekwa of Grand Kru, and Thomas Yaya Nimely of Grand Gedeh. Observers at the site noted that no members of the House of Representatives were part of the visit.
While details of the discussions have not been disclosed, the meeting comes amid mounting scrutiny of ArcelorMittal’s operations in Liberia. Nimba County Senator Nya D. Twayen has been particularly vocal, questioning whether the company’s operations are benefiting local communities as required under the 2007 Mineral Development Agreement (MDA).
On Friday, September 19, 2025, Senator Twanyen posted on Facebook, criticizing both the company and the legislators involved. He described the visit as a “luxury tour” and argued that it does not mask what he perceives as gross violations of the MDA. Twanyen also cited AML’s admission under oath that its plant is valued at less than $250 million, far below the previously reported $1.4 billion, and called on lawmakers and authorities to act decisively to protect the interests of Nimba County and Liberia.
In response, the Joint Legislative Committee on Mineral Development Agreements, chaired by Senator Numene T. H. Bartekwa and co-chaired by Senator Simeon B. Taylor, defended the visit. The Committee rejected claims that the meeting was secretive or intended to shield wrongdoing, emphasizing that it was a routine, fully authorized fact-finding mission to verify AML’s compliance with the MDA.
“The work we are doing is in plain daylight, with accountability and transparency,” the Committee declared. “We have nothing to hide and are committed to upholding the trust placed in us to oversee concession agreements responsibly.” The statement also criticized Senator Twanyen’s Facebook post as misleading and politically motivated, suggesting it misrepresents the legislators’ actions and implies ulterior motives.
The visit comes at a critical time for ArcelorMittal’s operations, which continue to face pressure from lawmakers, civil society groups, and local communities concerned about environmental impact, economic benefits, and adherence to contractual obligations. As discussions proceed behind closed doors, observers are closely watching for outcomes that could influence the future of the company’s concession in Nimba County.
