BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Leader of Opposition Matthew Wale has strongly condemned the recent burning and destruction of company property at the Gold Ridge Mine site and urges government to address grievances.

Wale, in a statement yesterday [Jan 22] said arson and the willful destruction of private property are serious criminal offences with penalties that include imprisonment.

“While there may be long-standing landowner grievances and frustrations over the operations and land issues, there are avenues and laws available for dealing with such concerns. Resorting to violence and intimidation only worsens the situation by harming ordinary citizens, workers, and landowning communities who depend on stability for their livelihoods, hence, cannot be tolerated by society at large,” Wale said.

He urged the Government to take this incident seriously and carry out robust investigations that not only look at the criminal aspects but also all underlying issues which continue to fuel tension around the Gold Ridge project.

He adds that this incident paints a negative picture for investment in the mining sector, hence it must not be ignored.

He said that the Government must now engage openly with landowners and community leaders to quickly restore trust, uphold justice, and prevent further escalation.

“Our nation cannot afford actions that threaten peace, investment confidence, and social cohesion,” he said.

He also appealed to the parties involved to remain calm and address their grievances through a more peaceful and lawful means for settling issues and avoiding a repeat.