THE governance and integrity of the Ok Tedi Mine must remain free from political interference, according to North Fly MP and Vice Minister for Mining, Hon James Donald.
Donald has closely monitored the mine’s affairs, particularly at the governance and executive management level, as the local MP and Vice Minister for the country’s mining portfolio.
The Ok Tedi mine is the largest single source of revenue for the Western Province, generating over 60% of its internal revenue. Donald asserts that the mine must be allowed to operate independently to concentrate on its core business of generating profit for its shareholders, including the State and Western Province.
He warns that any interference, either internal or external, could undermine the mine’s productivity and potentially lead to unexpected closure.
He expressed concern over the removal and appointment of board members and executives without proper reasons and urged the mine’s management not to be swayed by politics but to maintain the mine’s reputation as a world-class mine and keep it profitable for all stakeholders, including PNG’s economy.
While he welcomes the appointment of the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Kedi Ilimbit, Donald cautions the government not to politicize the governance and management of the mine.
He advised the new CEO to perform his role diligently without fear or favor and not to compromise his position with certain landowner groups or organizations who may pressure him to return their favor for supporting him during his previous protests over his sacking.
“Why I say this is because the people and the government of Western province will bear the huge costs of loss in terms of significant revenue loss, drop in local economy and living standard, and damages relating to psychological, emotional and physical environment while the rest of the country will be at minimal or even at no costs at all,” he said.
