The Rupununi Miners Association (RMA) has issued a statement denying allegations corruption at Marudi Mountain.
In a missive seen by this publication and signed by the RMA President, Romel Mckenzie, the association said that the allegations are “unfounded”
“The RMA unequivocally rejects the baseless allegations against our mining operations at Marudi Mountain. These claims misrepresent our activities and the extensive regulatory oversight governing mining in Guyana,” the body said after an overseas-based Guyanese activist, Melissa “Melly Me” Atwell, posted a message from someone accusing the RMA of engaging in corrupt practices.
Below is the full statement:
It has been brought to our attention that some unfounded allegations have been made regarding the operations of the Rupununi Miners Association (RMA). The RMA unequivocally rejects the baseless allegations against our mining operations at Marudi Mountain. These claims misrepresent our activities and the extensive regulatory oversight governing mining in Guyana.
The mining operation in Marudi is based on a mediation process from 2016 that guides on a number of matter and its public knowledge that persons who were not part of that process have sought to enter the mining area illegally and this was not permitted.
It should also be noted that the RMA operates within the confines of the law and this has not allowed persons we have constantly sought to disrupt the Organisation for their personal gains. What is of concern is the depth to which these self-serving objectives have led these persons who have now sought to besmirch the name of the government, Amerindian Communities and regulatory agencies. We wish to be clear that multiple government agencies have provided significant regulatory support to ensure that the RMA comply with all regulations and this continues to be done in a transparent manner.
Miners all around the country are recipient of the technical and regulatory support of the Government and the RMA can say without fear of contradiction that had it not been for the government, the families of the workers and investors of the mining operations would have had no form of livelihood as under the APNU-AFC administration.
RMA’s Commitment to Legal and Ethical Mining
· Established before 2016, the RMA operates under strict bylaws ensuring fair, equitable, and transparent practices.
· Our activities comply fully with the Mining Act, Cap 65:01 and are regulated by GGMC, EPA, and other authorities.
Community Engagement and Indigenous Support
· The Amerindian people of Southern Rupununi are integral to our operations. We actively engage in Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) discussions since 2020.
· GY$35.6 million in donations has been provided to Awarewaunau, Aishalton, and Karaudarnau to support their development.
· 20% of our 548 employees come from surrounding villages, ensuring local economic benefits.
Environmental Responsibility
· Deforestation limited to 83.47 acres, adhering to environmental standards.
· No pollution recorded in creeks or rivers; EPA and South Rupununi District Council conduct routine environmental checks.
Gold Trade Transparency
· All gold mined is legally sold to the Guyana Gold Board or licensed gold traders.
· Transaction receipts are strictly documented, ensuring accountability.
Security and Law Enforcement
· Regular police and immigration spot checks prevent unauthorized activities.
· Only registered operators are permitted to work in the mining region.
Governance and Monitoring
· Our governance framework is prudent, feasible, and economical, with regular audits, reporting, and inspections.
Final Statement
The RMA remains steadfast in its dedication to responsible mining, environmental sustainability, and community empowerment. These allegations are without merit, and we urge stakeholders to seek accurate information from official sources rather than rely on misinformation.
