SEATTLE (Oil Monster): Total Energies has refused to appear before the EU parliament to update on the development of the controversial proposed East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline that runs all the way from Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda to the port of Tanga in Tanzania.
In a letter addressed to the President of the European Parliament, Ms. Roberta Metsola, the company said that will not be represented at today’s hearing organised by the Human Rights sub-commission. The letter noted that the concerns raised in the resolution are based on serious and unfounded allegations. The EU resolution was passed without hearing the company, it said.
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The company reiterated that the project will be built only in accordance with international standards and that environmental and biodiversity issues will be given top priority. Moreover, Total Energies pointed out that the proposed pipeline project will trigger major development opportunities in Uganda and Tanzania.
The environmental groups alleged that the project would result in displacement of thousands of locals. Furthermore, it will have devastating impacts on wildlife and water resources including the Lake Victoria Basin.
Meantime, the government of Uganda announced its commitment to go ahead with the project. In the event of Total Energies backing out from the project, it will seek other partners, it said.