Leader of Opposition Hon. Matthew Wale has welcomed the announcement by the new Minister of Mines, Hon. Derek Manuari, to initiate a Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the 33 bauxite shipment saga.
Minister Manuari announced the COI during a press conference earlier this week.
Hon. Wale encouraged the new minister to leave no stone unturned and ensure the matter is dealt with once and for all.
“I encourage the new Mines Minister to get to the bottom of this mess and ensure that those responsible are held accountable,” Hon. Wale said.
The Opposition Leader said the mining industry is in total disarray, and it is time for the new minister to take the necessary steps to restore integrity and order.
“He may be stepping on political toes, but he must not allow such pressures to derail his noble intentions,” Hon. Wale said.
Speaking in Parliament on Monday, Hon. Wale reiterated the urgent need for mining sector transformation.
“Promised reforms to outdated mining laws and stronger environmental protections have yet to materialize. Revenue transparency and benefit-sharing with resource owners remain distant goals,” Hon. Wale said.
Hon. Wale also highlighted the lack of progress in separating administrative and regulatory powers, which continues to leave the sector vulnerable to unchecked ministerial influence.
“Although a Mining Cadastre System was introduced, it can be bypassed, and enforcement mechanisms remain weak,” Hon. Wale stressed.
The Opposition Leader encouraged the new Minister to prioritize these long-standing issues and deliver real reforms for the good of the nation.
Manuari replaced Bradley Smokey Tovosia who is now the fisheries minister.
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[Opposition Press]
