BY LORETTA B MANELE
Special Economic Zone (SEZ) negotiations must include locals.
The call was made by Nestor Ghiro, Member of Parliament for Central Makira during his contribution to the recent SEZ Bill 2024 debate in parliament.
He said a matter that may require immediate attention is the provision under Section 50 A of the bill which empowers the SEZ Authority to negotiate with foreign investors.
Ghiro stressed that if negotiations do not involve locals, then it will be a waste.
“If the line upon which negotiations are not perpetrated by locals, then we render them waste in the most consequential economic dialogues of our time.”
Ghiro pointed out that partnerships with foreign investors must not be transactional, but transformational built on mutual benefit with our citizens and as co-owners and not just as landlords or tenants.
He said if there is lack of transparent oversight mechanism, party participation framework will make it difficult for ordinary citizens and local businesses to effectively engage with or benefit from the Special Economic Zones.
“This lacking of accountability allows for in-link capture and policy manipulation by vested interests.”
Ghiro furthered that it is essential that government not only enforces the provisions of Section 27, Deal Changes and Integrity, but also embeds strong governance protocols that reflect democratic values, ensure equitable access and provide a clear and inclusive roadmap for economic development.
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