Admir Sahmanović, the Minister of Mining, Oil and Gas, has emphasized that the resolution of the claims made by former workers of the Bauxite Mine should occur through legal and institutional channels. During a meeting with the former workers at the Seoc plateau, Sahmanović proposed issuing a call for the sale of the mine’s assets on August 16.
According to the Ministry, Sahmanović expressed regret over the prolonged delay faced by the workers, who have been waiting for ten years for their claims to be settled from the bankruptcy estate. He assured that the problem would be addressed through legal processes and within the institutional framework.
“I truly regret that this long-standing issue has persisted, and that you have had to endure it, as you have contributed significantly to the community through your hard work and dedication,” Sahmanović stated.
He further noted that if anyone deserves their wages, pensions and associated rights, it is the former Bauxite Mine workers.
“You deserve recognition for your contributions. However, due to past issues, the situation is what it is, and we are working to find a resolution,” Shahmanović added.
Shahmanović proposed following the advice of bankruptcy administrator Nenad Amidžić and issuing a call for asset sale on August 16.
“I suggest we adhere to legal norms and address this issue within the institutional framework by exhausting all legal options available through the bankruptcy process,” Shahmanović said.
He mentioned that if no investor expresses interest, he will advocate with the Government to create a social support program.
Shahmanović indicated that he would explore the possibility of the Government assuming some of the debt and developing a social program, depending on available finances.
He acknowledged that he could not promise an immediate resolution but assured his full commitment to the issue.
“I cannot promise a quick fix, but I will commit 100 percent of my efforts to resolving this matter. The Ministry of Mining, Oil, and Gas is your home, and this will be a top priority for us,” Shahmanović assured.
He explained that resolving the issue within the institutional framework means executing bankruptcy proceedings, including eviction by August 15, issuing a call for asset sale, and possibly holding two calls. After all legal options are exhausted, they will prepare a report for the Government in coordination with the Ministry of Finance and the Prime Minister’s Cabinet.
Shahmanović expressed confidence that a solution could be found and urged the former workers not to protest or jeopardize their health.
“Only by working together can we resolve this issue. I urge you not to protest or put your health at risk; let the institutions do their work,” Shahmanović said.
He asked the former workers to be patient and trust in the process.
“After waiting so long, I ask for a little more patience. Trust us. I am speaking to you directly now. Hold me to my word – I will do everything possible within the Ministry of Mining, Oil, and Gas to resolve this issue,” Shahmanović concluded.
Milorad Đurović, a representative of the former Bauxite Mine workers, thanked Shahmanović for his visit. He acknowledged that the patience of the former employees is wearing thin but expressed a desire to work together with the Government and the minister to find a resolution.
