Perenco-REP Rejects Muanda Pollution Allegations: Denies HRW Report

• Perenco-REP has rejected allegations of pollution made by Human Rights Watch (HRW) in Muanda territory.
• The company claims that HRW's report relies on unverifiable scientific or factual evidence.
• Perenco-REP asserts that its activities are subject to permanent and rigorous controls by the Congolese state.
• The case may set a precedent for environmental due diligence and compliance in the Congolese energy sector.

According to Perenco-REP, the HRW report relies on unverifiable scientific or factual evidence and is based on contestable documents, including a 2013 Senate inquiry that was locally disputed in terms of methodology and conclusions.

Perenco-REP, a petroleum and gas company, has rejected allegations of pollution in the Muanda territory (Kongo-Central) made by Human Rights Watch (HRW). The company issued a statement on July 29, denying all claims made by HRW. According to Perenco-REP, the HRW report relies on unverifiable scientific or factual evidence and is based on contestable documents, including a 2013 Senate inquiry that was locally disputed in terms of methodology and conclusions. The company also cited anonymous and restricted testimonies as part of its argument.

The Congolese oil and gas regulations are relevant to this case. Perenco-REP claims that its activities are subject to permanent and rigorous controls by the competent services of the Congolese state. The company's environmental record is also under scrutiny, with HRW accusing it of harming air, soil, and groundwater in Muanda. This raises questions about the effectiveness of regulatory oversight in the region.

Lawyers advising clients with operations in the Kongo-Central region should monitor developments related to Perenco-REP's activities, as this case may set a precedent for environmental due diligence and compliance in the Congolese energy sector. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for companies operating in the region, highlighting the need for robust environmental regulations and effective enforcement mechanisms.

Lawyers advising clients with operations in the Kongo-Central region should monitor developments related to Perenco-REP's activities, as this case may set a precedent for environmental due diligence and compliance in the Congolese energy sector.

Source: Original reporting via Le Monde