Concerns raised as Jeffery Innes resigns as Chairman of Ok Tedi Mining Limited

Kumul Mineral Holdings Limited has accepted the resignation of Ok Tedi Mining Limited [OTML]Board Chairman Jeffery Innes in the last week.

OTML Board Director and Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited Board Chairman, Dr Ila Temu thanked Mr Innes for his contributions to OTML in leading the board.

Mr Innes resignation has however raised concerns.

North Fly MP and Shadow Minister for Mining, James Donald says Innes resignation adds to the growing list of senior officials who have left the company in the past five years.

Mr Donald acknowledged that leaving was a personal choice but says Innes departure carries a deeper message.

“I reluctantly say farewell to Mr. Innes, but I respect his decision. In his statement, he listed his achievements and vision for the company. While we appreciate his contribution, we must also take note of his warning.

“Mr Innes stated that Ok Tedi ‘must not be used for any political purposes’ but should remain independent. To me, this is a clear sign that political interference is threatening Ok Tedi,” Mr Donald said.

Mr Donald further added that Mr Innes was not the first respected leader to leave Ok Tedi under the current government.

“In 2020, Peter Graham resigned as Chairman. He later joined Kumul Minerals Holdings but left due to disagreements with the government over director appointments.

“In 2022, Managing Director Musje Werror resigned under unclear circumstances after rumors suggested he was forced out. Sources said he could not handle the political pressure influencing Ok Tedi’s decisions.

“For someone like Mr Werror, who worked his way up in Ok Tedi for years, to leave suddenly shows how deeply politics has infiltrated the company.”

Mr Donald urged Ok Tedi’s senior staff to resist political pressure.

“I call on all staff with no political interests to stand strong. You must protect Ok Tedi from greed and corruption,” Donald said.

Meanwhile, the OTML Board will immediately start the process to appoint the next Chairman, but for the meantime Dr Temu will be acting on the role.