Monrovia, Liberia – August 26, 2025 — Nimba County Senator Nya D. Twayen Jr. has launched a scathing critique against the current Mineral Development Agreement (MDA) between the Government of Liberia and ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML), labeling the 2005 deal as “a total nonsense.” During a recent legislative session, Senator Twayen voiced his strong dissatisfaction, asserting that the 22-year-old agreement has failed to deliver significant benefits to the Liberian people.
The senator’s criticisms highlight several major failures of the agreement. Key among these are AML’s alleged shortcomings in job creation and infrastructure development. Critics, including Senator Twayen, argue that the company has not met local content requirements, thereby restricting opportunities for Liberian citizens within the mining industry. Furthermore, residents in mining communities have reported a lack of progress on promised infrastructure, such as roads, schools, and health facilities.
Concerns also extend to the environmental and financial impacts of the agreement. Environmental groups have consistently raised alarms about deforestation, water pollution, and land degradation tied to AML’s operations. Financially, Senator Twayen questioned whether Liberia receives a fair share of the company’s profits, claiming the country’s return is disproportionately small.
In a firm warning, Senator Twayen declared, “If they don’t fix it, I, Nya Twayen, Senator of Nimba County, will do everything in my power to ensure no new agreement is signed for them.” This statement signals his commitment to galvanizing legislative support against any future agreements with AML unless substantial changes are made.
His strong stance is likely to fuel public scrutiny of AML’s operations and increase pressure on both the company and the Liberian government to ensure the country’s natural resources more equitably benefit its citizens. This comes as civil society groups and other lawmakers continue to call for a renegotiation or complete overhaul of the MDA.