By Staff Writer
BUHERA North legislator, Hon Phillip Guyo has implored environmental activists to shun confrontation and instead opt for engaging miners in their villagers when resolving disputes.
The call comes on the back of escalating conflict between villagers and mine owners across the country, prompting many to resolve issues in a confrontational manner.
But addressing environmental activists who are attending an Environmental Social Governance (ESG) Training program currently underway at Silveira House, Hon Guyo urged participants to choose dialogue and engagement over confrontation.
“Where the going gets tough, it is always wiser to follow the engagement path. As villagers and citizens at large we need to appreciate the fact that some of these demands we are pressing against the miners do not necessarily fall within their mandate.
“They are coming in to do business. They have paid their due taxes and they are also well protected by the law. Yes. Roads were built before the coming of miners but currently the law provides that mining activities take precedence over any other activity because it is a major revenue earner. So we need to navigate through engagement and establish common ground as opposed to confrontation,” he said.
The legislator said he has managed to spearhead successful programs in his constituency through engagement programs which have ultimately delivered a Win-Win situation for all.
Responding to the issue raised by the trainees of environmental degradation which has seen most open pits being left behind and trees cut down, the legislator called for the implementation of the law.
“The law is clear; report all those who violate the environment and let the law take its course. However, as Parliament we cannot interfere with issues of Sexually Transmitted Diseases raised by some participants because they are consensual and Health Centres are there to assist such people,” he added.
