Monrovia, Liberia – ArcelorMittal Liberia has revealed that continuous and false allegations by the Daily Observer have once again sparked a controversy around the Yekepa-Buchanan railway with the goal of fueling unjustified public debate.
According to these claims, ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) is attempting to monopolize the railway that it meticulously restored at the start of its Liberia project in 2007.
These accusations continue in spite of AML’s open communication and clear evidence to the contrary, which raises serious questions about the Observer’s adherence to journalistic ethics and its potential preference for corporate interests above upholding public confidence.
AML claimed that High Power Exploration (HPX), headed by Dr. J. Peter Pham, is at the core of this story. HPX has attempted to sway public opinion by using a network of media proxy services, including the Observer.
While downplaying HPX’s blatant investment schemes and lack of real investment in Liberia’s infrastructure, AML argues that the objective is clear: to portray AML as a barrier to advancement. The facts are misrepresented in this campaign, which also downplays AML’s incomparable contributions to Liberia’s post-war reconstruction and long-term economic expansion.
AML has shown a strong commitment to Liberia’s development since its arrival, investing more over $800 million to repair the Yekepa-Buchanan railway and the Buchanan port, two vital assets that were left unusable by years of civil conflict. This railroad is being used as AML claimed that High Power Exploration (HPX), headed by Dr. J. Peter Pham, is at the core of this story. HPX has attempted to sway public opinion by using a network of media proxy services, including the Observer.
While downplaying HPX’s blatant investment schemes and lack of real investment in Liberia’s infrastructure, AML argues that the objective is clear: to portray AML as a barrier to advancement. The facts are misrepresented in this campaign, which also downplays AML’s incomparable contributions to Liberia’s post-war reconstruction and long-term economic expansion.
AML has shown a strong commitment to Liberia’s development since its arrival, investing more over $800 million to repair the Yekepa-Buchanan railway and the Buchanan port, two vital assets that were left unusable by years of civil conflict. This railroad is being used as a lifeline for economic activities in Liberia’s mineral-rich regions.
In contrast, AML claims that HPX, which wants to utilize the railway to move ore from Guinea, has not yet received an operating license from the Guinean government and has not invested in any infrastructure that would validate its plans in Liberia. This discrepancy raises an important question: Who is more dedicated to Liberia’s long-term development, AML, with its track record of investment and community effect, or HPX, which uses forceful political lobbying and the media to avoid its responsibilities?
AML has adopted a multiuser structure, as stated in Article Three of the modified Mineral Development Agreement (MDA), which was presented to the Liberian Legislature in 2021, in contrast to the allegations of monopolistic intent. As long as the government of Liberia maintains regulatory monitoring to assure safety, dependability, and efficiency, this system guarantees fair access to the railway. AML’s strategy turns the railway into a national asset that can be used responsibly and under regulation, rather than impeding competition, AML report.
This dedication is demonstrated by AML’s ongoing $1 billion Phase II expansion project, which involves installing state-of-the-art locomotives and wagons to increase capacity and safety, updating nine sidings, and replacing 600,000 timber sleepers with steel alternatives. Additionally, the project entails installing cutting-edge material handling equipment and building a new multifunctional dock at Buchanan Port. More than 3,000 employment will be created by these investments, mostly helping Liberians and enhancing AML’s position as a pillar of the nation’s economic stability.
According to reports, HPX overlooks basic facts when it portrays AML as restrictive. AML’s significant financial contributions to Liberia, which include taxes, royalties, and community development projects, show that it supports the country’s objectives. HPX, on the other hand, has no real evidence to support its claims. As a requirement for multiuser agreements, it has not specified how it plans to build the extra railway capacity needed to manage rising tonnage responsibly.
“It is dishonest to portray AML’s regulatory compliance as an effort to discredit rivals like HPX and Solway Mining. Access issues are not caused by AML’s operational procedures, but rather by the intricacies of Liberia’s regulatory environment. Furthermore, AML’s emphasis on efficiency and safety is a national necessity rather than just a business requirement.”
“Similarly baseless are claims that AML’s activities run opposite to US strategic objectives. Liberia’s goal of fair resource management is in line with the economic progress driven by AML’s investments. By keeping a multiuser framework and repairing the Yekepa-Buchanan railway, AML makes sure that Liberia’s resources are used to the advantage of its citizens, promoting sustainable development.”
Instead of division, cooperation is the key to Liberia’s railway’s future. The multiuser architecture of AML prioritizes national advancement while balancing conflicting interests. AML maintain it is still dedicated to promoting shared prosperity, protecting infrastructure investments, and supporting Liberia’s economic transition as a corporate citizen.
“The growth of Liberia is not greatly aided by unfounded allegations and deceptive media efforts. Rather, they take focus away from the vital work of creating a sustainable and united future. AML is prepared to collaborate with all parties involved, including HPX, in order to guarantee that Liberia’s railway will continue to be a source of opportunity for future generations. Let the facts do the talking: AML is a partner in Liberia’s quest for long-term development, not a monopolist.”
