Calls for Dialogue with Tronox
CCN Reporter – George April
LUTZVILLE:- Residents from Lutzville and surrounding communities staged a peaceful protest and march this week, calling on Tronox management to engage directly with community representatives over concerns relating to the company’s Social and Labour Plan (SLP) commitments.
According to a statement issued by the Community Delegation of Lutzville and Surrounding Communities, the demonstration followed repeated requests for a meeting with Tronox, particularly with Mr. Junior Koegelenberg, which the community says have not resulted in direct engagement.
Community representatives say they are seeking greater transparency and accountability regarding commitments they believe were made under the Social and Labour Plan. They contend that these commitments have not been adequately explained or fulfilled and are calling for meaningful dialogue with the company.
The community further alleges that, rather than engaging with protesters, Tronox relied on law enforcement officers to disperse demonstrators from the roadway. Protest organisers maintain that the march was peaceful and that their objective was to secure open communication with the company.
Community leaders say they will continue to oppose Tronox’s operations through lawful and peaceful means until the company agrees to meet with community representatives and address their concerns.
They have urged Tronox to prioritise dialogue over conflict and to acknowledge the concerns of communities directly affected by its operations.
This protest follows an earlier breakdown in talks after a scheduled meeting between Tronox and the Lutzville and Lutzville-Wes Community Committee did not take place, with the community subsequently declaring a deadlock in its engagement with the company.
CCN has approached Tronox for comment regarding the allegations and the community’s concerns. – The company’s response will be published once received.
