Peruvian small-scale miners – many of whom do not operate with proper permits – have been demanding a two-year extension of a program that allows them to operate temporarily.
Authorities say the program, meant to regularize the artisanal miners, has caused illegal mining to multiply and legislators argued in Congress that Mucho had shown a lack of interest and/or ability to solve the issue.
The resolution naming Montero was published on Sunday but also dated Saturday, Nov. 30.
The appointment represents a return to Peru’s ministry of mines and energy for Montero who, according to his LinkedIn profile, served as Peru’s vice minister of mines from November 2020 to August 2021.
(By Oliver Griffin; Editing by Marguerita Choy)
Read More: Peru votes to extend informal mining permits for six more months