Labour Protests at China Union Mining Concession Highlight Longstanding Grievances
In the Fuamah District of Bong County, a growing unrest is taking place as former workers of the Chinese-run mining company China Union are demanding overdue salaries and benefits. The protests have been ongoing for several years, with some workers having been laid off as early as 2014 during the Ebola outbreak. These individuals are now calling for justice and recognition of their contributions to the company.
Representative Foday E. Fahnbulleh, who represents Bong County District #7, has voiced his concern over the situation. In a statement released on Tuesday, he emphasized that the grievances of these workers are “genuine and long overdue.” According to him, many of these employees were laid off during the 2014 Ebola crisis and have not been reinstated since. He argued that they deserve fair treatment and that the company owes them a great deal.
“These are workers who dedicated years of service to China Union but have been abandoned since the Ebola crisis,” the lawmaker stated. “My office stands in solidarity with them as they demand justice, dignity, and the restoration of their livelihoods.”
Rep. Fahnbulleh also pointed out that there are reports suggesting that Chinese nationals are currently performing basic tasks such as driving and manual labor—roles that could be filled by qualified Liberians. He described this as “unacceptable, discriminatory, and contrary to the principles of fairness, equal opportunity, and respect for Liberia’s labor laws.”
To address these concerns, the Bong County lawmaker has taken “concrete legislative actions” to ensure accountability. He revealed that four separate citations have been issued to the Ministry of Mines and Energy, the National Investment Commission, the Ministry of Labor, and the Chief Executive Officer of China Union. These citations invite the relevant parties to appear before the Joint Labour, Investment, and Concession Committee of the Legislature.
“These engagements are intended to promote transparency, accountability, and a genuine resolution that restores confidence between China Union and the host communities,” Rep. Fahnbulleh emphasized.
While supporting the workers’ right to protest, he urged demonstrators to remain peaceful and law-abiding. “I fully respect the constitutional right of citizens to express their grievances,” he said. “However, I strongly encourage that all actions remain calm, orderly, and within the confines of the law. Violence, destruction of property, or any form of unrest must be avoided.”
Rep. Fahnbulleh reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare and rights of the people of Fuamah District. He vowed to continue engaging with relevant authorities until the concerns of the former China Union workers are resolved.
“My dedication to the people of Fuamah remains firm. We will not rest until a fair, transparent, and lawful solution is achieved, one that upholds the dignity of the Liberian workforce,” he concluded.
Key Points from the Situation
- Historical Context: Workers were laid off as far back as 2014 during the Ebola outbreak.
- Current Demands: Workers are pushing for overdue salaries and benefits.
- Allegations of Discrimination: Reports suggest Chinese nationals are performing roles that could be filled by Liberians.
- Legislative Actions: Four citations have been issued to various government bodies and the CEO of China Union.
- Call for Peace: The representative urges protesters to remain peaceful and within legal boundaries.