Vale protested over independent commissioner appointments

IDX listed PT Vale Indonesia Tbk received protests from locals following its decision to appoint three independent commissioners who weren't local born, Ujungpandangekspres.com reported.

Hundreds of people under the banner of The Forum of People Affected by PT Vale Indonesia Tbk Operations swarmed the Wasuponda - Malili street on Wednesday, May 23, blocking access to the company's nickel mining site in Sorowako, Luwu Timur.

"We're here to protest the results of the company's appointment of three independent commissioners through its Shareholders' General Meeting on April 25. Their appointments, neglecting the aspiration of Luwu Timur people, is a form of harassment that must be fought back," said demonstration leader Hendra Tajuddin.

The Luwu Timur Police Resort deployed dozens of its personnel to contain the situation, but failed to stop the protesters from affecting Vale's operation, as employees, company operational vehicles, including logistic transports, were denied access to the mine.

Similar protests are expected to take place in Towuti and Malili sub districts of Luwu Timur.

"We plan to boycott all company activities until a decision to evaluate the appointments is made," said Samuel, an orator.

Vale, nevertheless, has not made any comment regarding the matter.(*)