Demonstrators rock Newmont in Manado

Tens of youths and students from Minahasa regency, North Sulawesi staged a peaceful rally in Manado on Wednesday to demand gold mining company PT Newmont Minahasa Raya to pay the C-class and underground water taxes to Minahasa regency as well as conserve the environment around its mine in the regency.

The demonstrators first visited the provincial legislature where they held a one-hour talk with the legislators.

Then, they moved to Newmont's office where they were accepted by company manager of government and community relations Tri Harjono.

Tri said he appreciated the fact that the students and youths cared about the current issues around them, including Newmont's case, but they need to get well informed about the issue.

"That's why I was happy to meet them since the real issue is that Minahasa regency administration wants to close Newmont's operation before the court finish examining the case," Tri said.

Minahasa regency administration has filed a suit against Newmont in the local district court for its refusal to pay the C-class taxes on its overburden. The court has ordered a temporary suspension of Newmont's operation although the examination of the case is not yet over -- a decision which sparks criticism from the central government and the industries. (*)