Controversy Surrounding Neom Project in Saudi Arabia Involves Misconduct and Racism Claims
ICARO Media Group
In a shocking revelation, the Wall Street Journal has published a detailed investigation highlighting disturbing allegations of misconduct and racism surrounding the Neom project in Saudi Arabia. Neom, a $500 billion mega-construction project touted as a visionary development endeavor, has come under scrutiny following the tragic deaths of three workers.
During an emergency meeting held after the unfortunate incidents, Wayne Borg, who was appointed to run Neom's media division, made derogatory remarks about the blue-collar workers involved in the project. He reportedly referred to them as "f-ing morons" and expressed offensive views on racial hierarchy, stating that "white people are at the top of the pecking order."
The recording of the meeting, obtained by the Wall Street Journal, further revealed Borg's dismissive attitude towards the incident, sarcastically remarking, "A whole bunch of people die so we've got to have a meeting on a Sunday night." The insensitive comments made by Borg have sparked outrage and raised concerns over the treatment of workers in the mega-city project.
A spokesperson for Neom responded to the allegations by emphasizing that all claims of wrongdoing and misconduct would be thoroughly investigated. They affirmed that appropriate action would be taken if any wrongdoing is substantiated. However, Wayne Borg's representative has not yet responded to requests for comment from either the Wall Street Journal or Fortune.
The revelations don't end with Borg's behavior. The Wall Street Journal also reported on the alleged misconduct of other executives involved in the Neom project. One manager, with a corruption conviction, is said to have maintained a close relationship with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which has seemingly shielded him from accountability for various misconduct allegations, including a physical altercation with a construction manager.
Furthermore, the project reportedly employed executives who were under investigation for embezzlement. The Neom project's chief executive, Nadhmi al-Nasr, is accused of belittling and berating employees. In one recording, he is heard saying, "I drive everybody like a slave." These revelations paint a concerning picture of a project marred by unethical behavior and a toxic working environment.
The international community has expressed its concern over the allegations surrounding the Neom project, which was initially announced in 2017 with a projected opening in 2039. The scale of the project, covering an area the size of Belgium, promised cutting-edge architecture and an array of flashy ventures to attract a population larger than New York City.
As the investigations unfold, calls for accountability and transparency within the Neom project are growing louder. It remains to be seen how these allegations will impact the trajectory of the mega-city and the reputation of those involved.