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SORE BOOTED

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Former Honiara City Council Clerk Rence Sore. Photo: Charles Kadamana

HCC terminates controversial Clerk’s contract

BY ALFRED PAGEPITU

THE Honiara City Council (HCC) Executive Committee has terminated the contract of Rence Sore as City Clerk.

Deputy Mayor Francis Idu told Island Sun yesterday the decision was reached on Tuesday, with Mr Sore receiving the termination letter yesterday.

Sore is being investigated over allegations of corruption. However, Idu said HCC executive were in one-mind to get rid of him.

Sore did not return phone calls made to him last night for comment.

Deputy Mayor Idu said the executive is doing what former Mayor, Wilson Mamae hesitated to do.

“Seven Councillors have decided to terminated Sore after the Councillors Committee members meeting on Tuesday 6th April 2021 held at the HCC Chamber decide to terminate Sore’s contract as the Clerk.”

Idu said the decision is based on the grounds that there is sufficient evidence to terminate the City Clerk; one of the main reasons is illegal sale of Council land PN. 192010-33.

“HCC Legal team stressed that any decision to terminate the City Clerk must come with good grounds to avoid any repercussion.”

Idu said despite this the executive committee favoured terminating the City Clerk with immediate effect.

“There were two options that were considered, and that is either to suspend the City Clerk and allow for investigations to be carried out or to immediately terminate the Clerk.

“We the executive committee’s decision now is to terminate the appointment of the City Clerk immediately.

“During the discussion on the motion put forward to terminate the Clerk, Cr Eddie Siapu stated that it would be in the best interest of the Council and the public to terminate the City Clerk.

“Most of the councillors who joined the meeting shared the same sentiment that termination of the City Clerk needs to be done immediately to clear way forward for the council.

“The executive committee resolves to terminate the appointment of the City Clerk with the immediate effect based on reasons stated on April 6, 2021 meeting.”

Idu said the executive committee resolved to revoke and remove the City Clerk’s signature from the Council’s Bank Account, and resolution was passed by majority.

Meanwhile, Idu said they have appointed the current Deputy City Clerk to be the acting City Clerk until such time a new Clerk is appointed by the full Council.

Present at the meeting were Councillors Francis Idu, Dorah Huapii, Robert Oge, Mostyn Saferio, Clement Terewauri, Luciano Sade and Eddie Siapu.

Ex-officio present were Paul Inifiri, William Floyd and Vincent Kohata.

Malaita PS challenges Public Service over ‘unlawful’ suspension

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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By EDDIE OSIFELO

MALAITA Provincial Secretary Fredrick Fa’abasua is challenging his suspension.

The province said Fa’asubua will initiate legal proceeding unless the Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Public Service, Nego Sisiolo “withdraws the unlawful suspension on him”.

Premier Daniel Suidani confirmed this in a statement yesterday after PS Sisiolo issued the suspension letter to Fa’abasua last Friday.

Suidani said Sisiolo accused Fa’abasua of financial allegations that were “untrue, and in the same letter, he ordered the suspension of our PS, effective immediately”.

“Unfortunately, in doing so, Sisiolo did not follow the process set out in the Public Service Act and its Regulations,” Suidani said.

“The Public Service Act and its regulations have a specific legal process set out, by which such accusations can be taken up and acted upon,” he added.

Suidani said this legal process provides the opportunity for natural justice, and this process was not, repeat was not, followed by Sisiolo.

He said the Public Service Act sets out a process by which any officer alleging misconduct and having supervisory responsibility over the PS must have a report about this accusation filed to the PS of Public Service. 

The PS of Public Service in turn must give a minimum period of seven days to the officer to respond.

“None of these steps have happened or if it had happened the PS has not been aware of it, and therefore our PS has decided to put these issues before the Permanent Secretary of Public Service for him to do the right thing by following the clear process that is set down.

“Soon these matters will be at court but for now I will say the following:

  1. PS Fa’abasua has been an exemplary public officer and a real servant to Malaita people.
  2. His hard work and integrity has led to the repayment of millions of dollars of outstanding debt left by previous provincial executives.
  3. His dedication and faithfulness have seen the charging of fair business licenses on the logging companies ripping our people’s land.
  4. His careful diligence has given pride and hope to the people of Malaita Province.”

Suidani said it is sad after all this work, two different ministries have tried to remove PS Fa’abasua from serving the people of Malaita Province.

Last year in December the Ministry of Provincial Government demanded the removal of PS Fa’abasua back to Honiara.

Suidani said no reason was given in this demand and the PS kept serving the people of Malaita.

He alleged this current action by Sisiolo from Ministry of Public Service is similarly motivated. 

“He (Sisiolo) is trying to remove PS from Malaita Province, this time by trying to suspend him without any proper evidence put against the PS and without even complying with his own regulations.

“I am not sure of the real reason for these constant attacks on PS Fa’abasua, but the timing of this action by Sisiolo will have some severe effects on the people and province of Malaita,” he said.

Suidani said his Executive is scheduled to meet today Tuesday, March 16, to pass the budget for Malaita Province.

“If Sisiolo’s action succeeds, then our PS will be suspended when he should be helping the Executive pass this budget. Malaita Province will then have no budget to spend this year and this will have serious impact on the people of Malaita.

“In light of this seriousness, I appeal to Sisiolo for the withdrawal of the order to immediately suspend PS Fa’abasua. If he has genuine concerns for upholding the rule of law, I invite him to proceed as set out in the Public Service Act,” he said.

Suidani said the PS of Public Service without any good reason is attempting to discipline the PS of Malaita Province, yet he is allowing a person who has been found to be a foreigner by the High Court of Solomon Islands to continue holding senior sensitive political jobs in the Prime Minister’s Office.

“That person too has contravened the Electoral Acts of this country yet the leaders of this country including the PS of Public Service are turning a blind eye on that situation. 

“The PS of Public Service needs to explain that to the people of Malaita.  Why is he tolerating wilful and reckless behaviour by a foreigner and harassing a national without due process?” he asked.

However, PS Sisiolo said the suspension decision is due to serious allegations around unaccountable sum of government revenue in which the PS is alleged to have directly involved in.

“As part of protecting the credibility of the service and upholding better governance, my office deemed it is prudent to suspend the officer from duty to allow investigation into the allegations.

“As usual, the PS will be accorded natural justice process as we pursue the disciplinary process,” he said.

PS Sisiolo said the incumbent of the office of the provincial secretary is an extremely important public office because it administers service delivery that affects the affairs of the rural people.

“Therefore any decision that will affect the said office expected HR capacity is accorded thorough thinking,” he said.

A statement from the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) yesterday stated that the Provincial Secretary for Malaita Province is suspended based on allegations raised by former disgruntled Malaita workers.

“Based on documents submitted, the Ministry of Public Service (MPS) perused those matters reported by former employees. Based on the allegations, the MPS carried out a preliminary investigation and decided to suspend the Public Officer to give way for a full investigation.

“These cases were brought forward by concerned and aggrieved citizens and not in any way reflect any attempts by the MPGIS or the Solomon Islands Government to tarnish either the PS or the Malaita Provincial Government,” the statement said.

HEARTBREAK ENDS

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Solomon Island's Gregy Gau (L) & Fiji’s Zaman Shah (R) at the OFC U-16 Men's Championship 2026, Semi Final 1, Fiji v Solomon Islands, PNG Football Stadium, Port Moresby, Wednesday 22 July 2026. Photo: DJ Mills / www.phototek.nz

Katukatu boys fall to Fiji on penalties after courageous semi-final display but remain in contention for FIFA U-17 World Cup qualification through the third-place playoff

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands’ impressive run at the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2026 suffered a heartbreaking setback yesterday after the Katukatu boys went down 4-2 in a penalty shoot-out against Fiji following a tense goalless semi-final at the PNG Football Stadium.

According to the official post-match report released by Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Media, Fiji held their nerve from the penalty spot after neither side was not able to break the deadlock over 90 minutes, securing qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2027 and a place in Saturday’s championship final.

The defeat ended Solomon Islands’ hopes of reaching the tournament final but Henry Fa’arodo’s young side still has one final opportunity to book a place at the FIFA U-17 World Cup when they contest the third-place playoff.

Despite entering the match as underdogs against an unbeaten Fijian outfit, the Solomon Islanders produced one of their most spirited performances of the tournament, unsettling their opponents with aggressive pressing and quick attacking transitions throughout much of the contest.

Young winger George Lea’i again proved influential on the left flank, creating several dangerous opportunities for his teammates during a lively first-half display.

Barry Waletofea came closest to opening the scoring for Solomon Islands after firing into the side-netting before later striking the bottom of the right post from another promising move created by Lea’i. Striker Jayer Makarani also went close, sending a shot narrowly wide as Solomon Islands repeatedly threatened the Fijian defence before halftime.

The Katukatu boys continued their attacking intent after the break, with goalkeeper Kirikiti Biu forced into a fingertip save to deny Gregy Gau from long range.

However, Fiji gradually found their rhythm as the match wore on, creating chances of their own through Ryan Swami and striker Isoa Baselala. Baselala missed the best opportunity of normal time when he blasted over the crossbar from close range after finding himself unmarked inside the penalty area.

With neither side able to find the breakthrough after 90 minutes, the semi-final was decided by penalties.

Fiji goalkeeper Kirikiti Biu emerged as the hero, producing two crucial saves before Baselala converted the decisive spot-kick to seal a 4-2 shoot-out victory.

“Goalkeeper Biu made two crucial stops, before striker Baselala struck the decisive penalty to win the shoot-out 4-2,” the OFC Media post-match report said.

The result sends Fiji into the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship final and confirms their qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2027, marking the third consecutive edition in which the Pacific nation has secured a place at the global tournament.

For Solomon Islands, the campaign is not over.

The Katukatu boys will now turn their attention to the third-place playoff, where victory will secure the remaining Oceania qualification berth for the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2027.

Solomon Islands enjoyed an impressive campaign throughout the group stage to reach the semi-finals of the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship in Papua New Guinea. Coached by Henry Fa’arodo, the Katukatu boys displayed disciplined defending and exciting attacking football during the tournament and will now have one final opportunity to qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup when they contest the third-place playoff.

Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek

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Britain extends best wishes as Glasgow 2026 draws closer

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

As preparations gather pace for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, the United Kingdom has extended its support and best wishes to Team Solomon ahead of the international sporting event.

The message was shared by UK in Solomon Islands through its official Facebook page, highlighting the UK’s commitment to hosting another successful Commonwealth Games while wishing Solomon Islands athletes every success on their journey to Glasgow.

“The Commonwealth Games are more than sport—they provide a pathway for elite athletes, inspire communities, and unite 56 nations and territories through friendship, respect and shared values,” the statement said.

According to the post, the UK Government is proud to support Glasgow 2026, continuing a long tradition of bringing together the Commonwealth family through sport while introducing a more sustainable model for future Games.

The post also noted that previous editions of the Games, including Glasgow 2014 and Birmingham 2022, helped stimulate local economies, create trade and investment opportunities, strengthen cultural connections and demonstrate the UK’s ability to deliver world-class sporting events.

“We wish Team Solomon and all Commonwealth athletes every success on the road to Glasgow 2026,” the statement said.

The message comes as Team Solomon continues its preparations for the Games, where the country will join athletes from across the Commonwealth to compete on one of the world’s biggest multi-sport stages.

The Commonwealth Games, held every four years, bring together athletes from 56 Commonwealth nations and territories in celebration of sport, friendship and shared values.

Glasgow previously hosted the Games in 2014 and will again welcome competitors in 2026 under what organisers describe as a more sustainable and streamlined model, continuing the event’s legacy while inspiring the next generation of athletes.

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Solomon Islands withdraws from Oceania Volleyball Championship

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BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

In Hamilton, NZ

THE Solomon Islands national volleyball teams have withdrawn from the upcoming Oceania Zonal Volleyball Championship 2026, scheduled for August 3 to 9 in Guam.

Solomon Islands Volleyball Federation (SIVF) president Morris Maitaki confirmed the decision on Tuesday night, saying financial constraints and the high cost of sending both the men’s and women’s teams were the main reasons for the withdrawal.

Maitaki said difficulties in obtaining entry visas to the United States territory were also a key factor in the federation’s decision.

“On behalf of the federation, I would like to convey our apology for this late withdrawal,” Maitaki said.

Meanwhile, the confirmed nations for the championship are host Guam, Palau, New Caledonia, American Samoa, Australia, Papua New Guinea, Wallis and Futuna, and the Cook Islands.

Each nation is expected to field two teams — one men’s and one women’s side — in a tournament designed to showcase Pacific volleyball talent and strengthen regional sporting ties.

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Kwasila pig farmers association thanks SIART

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Kwasila Piggery Farmers Association in Malaita province is grateful to the Solomon Islands Agriculture Rural Transformation (SIART) Project for their support.

Through funding support from the SIRAT Project, the association was able to begin piggery breeding and construction of fattening houses.

They started breeding in April with five female pigs and one male pig, and now they are ready to mate them.

Moses Bogilogilo, an association member, in an interview yesterday said the project is giving them great hope for a brighter future.

He said their piggery farm now looks healthier and is in line with their expectations, and added that their members are now preparing their own fattening houses.

“At the moment, we are preparing our own fattening houses ready for when we have piglets and can do the fattening ourselves.

“From our observation, after about three months, we have seen that our pigs are healthier, and this aligns with our expectations,” he said.

Meanwhile, he appeals to the procurement officers and the office responsible to speed up with the delivery of materials and equipment saying they are very essential for the completion of the last phases of their project.

“Yes, while we acknowledge them for this project, the delayed materials and equipment are what we need to complete our houses before reaching the breeding time and fattening,” he said.

He also acknowledges the ministry officers and SIART officers for their follow-up visits to them.

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Australian Navy crew visits Hells Point

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

The navy crew of Australia’s HMAS Yarra visited the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Hell’s Point Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) facility last month.

A statement from the Australian High Commission (AHC) said the Royal Australian Navy sailors and officers spent the day learning how the RSIPF EOD unit identifies and disposes of unexploded ordnance (UXO) before concluding the visit with friendly games of soccer and touch football.

Able Seaman Jacob Ives, from HMAS Yarra, in a game of soccer with RSIPF Police Constable Jonax Koloni at the Hells Point Explosive Ordnance Disposal facility. Photo by AHC

AHC said Solomon Islands has one of the highest concentrations of Explosive remnants of war (ERW) in the Pacific leaving RSIPF EOD personnel disposing hundreds of UXO items every year.

The visit catered to the crew observing RSIPF’s procedures of identifying, assessing and disposing UXO.

“The demonstration included the use of portable X-ray equipment to assess munitions in the field, as well as a remote EOD cutting tool used to safely cut munitions before disposal,” the statement said.

Lieutenant Alastair Wyatt, HMAS Yarra Clearance Diving Officer said the visit highlighted RSIPF EOD unit’s depth of expertise and pointed out that Solomon Islands is home to one of the busiest EOD communities in the world.

“The opportunity to observe them operating in their own environment and learn from their experience was invaluable for me and my team,” he said.

Meanwhile, Inspector Clifford Tunuki, RSIPF Director of EOD welcomed the HMAS Yarra delegation and said he looked forward to strengthening cooperation with Australian EOD personnel.

Inspector Tunuki was presented with a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion from HMAS Yarra Commanding Officer Lieutenant Commander Andrew Penfold.

Commanding Officer HMAS Yarra Lieutenant Commander Andrew Penfold and RISPF Director of EOD Inspector Clifford Tunuki pose for a photo during HMAS Yarra’s visit to the Hells Point Explosive Ordnance Disposal. Photo by AHC

Lieutenant Commander Penfold said the opportunity to learn from EOD specialists who deal with unexploded ordnance on a daily basis provided valuable professional development for his crew.

“The knowledge and experience shared by the RSIPF team reinforces the importance of strong regional partnerships and helps ensure our people remain ready to support future operations together,” he said.

Photo credit: AHC

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SINU opens free Japanese language classes

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BY TONY IROGA

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) will offer free Japanese language classes from late August 2026 through a partnership between its Faculty of Business and Tourism Studies (FBTS) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

In a statement issued yesterday, SINU said the programme is open to students, staff and members of the public who are interested to learn the Japanese language.

According to SINU, classes will be offered at three levels. Level One will focus on basic greetings and simple expressions, Level Two will build participants’ vocabulary and everyday conversation skills,  and Level Three will help learners use more expressions in daily life and travel situations.

SINU said the classes will be conducted during daytime hours, with weekday classes tentatively scheduled for Levels One to Three and Saturday classes for Levels One and Two.

The university said all classes will be held at the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management at its Kukum Campus.

SINU encourages interested participants to join its Japanese Language Class Facebook Group for registration details, class schedules and future updates.

“Start your Japanese language journey with SINU,” the university said.

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Kwaio farmer offers pig farming as alternative revenue maker for dropouts

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

A local pig farmer and member of the Kwasila Piggery Farmers Association is encouraging young high school dropouts and university students who are facing tuition problems to consider pig farming.

Moses Bogilogilo, who hails from West Kwaio, Malaita Province, speaking to the paper yesterday said this is one way forward for them to earn enough income for their tuition.

He added that other farming activities and part-time work may help, but it may take longer before they earn the needed amounts.

He emphasised that this is the way forward and a means to avoid the dependency syndrome on MPs and other benefactors for support. 

“It comes to our attention that we have many high school dropouts and university students that are deferring their courses due to financial constraints because of dependency on our MPs for free money.

“This is the main financial problem our students face every year,” he said.

He encourages them to make up their minds and intervene in piggery farming with their parents.

He also gave an example of income earned after farming ten pigs and selling them for $2,500 each.

“I have seen and felt the earnings outcome from farming pigs. So, I encourage you to follow my journey and do what I have been experiencing.

“For instance, if you farm ten pigs, and then after two years you sell them for $2,500 each, after your sales, you’ll get $25,000, which will cater to your tuition,” he said.

He mentioned that this is how he built his three-bedroom permanent house, started his canteen, and afforded his children’s school fees at primary and secondary school levels.

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Regional climate ministers call for united voice on climate change ahead of COP 31

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BY CHARLES STENNETT

Pacific Climate Ministers met in Sydney this week for the sixth Pacific Climate Ministers’ meeting to strengthen regional climate cooperation and advance a united Pacific agenda ahead of Pre-COP31 in the Pacific and COP31 in Turkiye.

The meeting was co-chaired by Wayne Ghemu, Solomon Islands’ Minister of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, representing the Pacific Islands Forum Chair, and Chris Bowen, Australia’s Minister for Climate Change and Energy.

A statement from the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) said the meeting focused on delivering ambitious outcomes through the Pacific-Australia partnership, with discussions focused on advancing shared regional priorities through the Pacific Senior Officials Taskforce, including coordination of Pacific positions, preparations for the Pre-COP in Fiji, and the Leaders’ side visit to Tuvalu.

“Through the Pacific Islands Forum and the COP31 Pacific Partnership, we have shown that when we speak with one voice, we amplify our influence, strengthen our negotiating position and present solutions that are greater than the sum of our individual efforts. In an increasingly uncertain world, our regional solidarity is not simply a matter of convenience; it is a strategic necessity,” said co-chair Ghemu.

“Pre-COP will position Pacific voices to shape global climate negotiations, bringing governments and investors to the region,” said co-chair, Bowen. 

Sefanaia Nawadra, Director General of the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) said the Climate Ministers took forward their important work on regional climate cooperation, which will help deliver real outcomes on the region’s priorities.

“Our Pacific Islands communities feel the impacts of climate change in their daily lives, so it is imperative that we do everything within our collective power to address this issue. Together, we have a responsibility to ensure Pacific priorities are amplified in the global negotiations that will shape our future,” said Nawadra.

PIF Deputy Secretary General Desna Solofa said while progressing this work, senior officials and the COP31 Secretariat are also very mindful of the current geopolitics and the impacts it will have in how they move forward.

“Amid current geopolitical uncertainties, alarms have been raised on the potential of an overshoot in the global average temperature, a strong push-back on the centrality of science, a shrinking climate financial landscape, and concerns over the inadequacy of multilateral processes and their ability to respond at the speed needed to address the climate crisis,” said Solofa. 

“It is therefore very critical that we are agile and remain ahead of these issues particularly in how we implement the COP31 Pacific Partnership”.

The statement said Ministers reviewed progress in Pacific climate diplomacy, including engagement with Türkiye, outcomes from the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies meetings in Bonn, and discussions held during London Climate Action Week last month.

They also considered upcoming technical engagements that will inform the region’s collective approach to COP31.

The Pacific Climate Ministers meeting reflects the region’s commitment to collective climate action, resilience and keeping Pacific priorities at the centre of global climate decision-making.

Photo credit: PIF

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PEC defends 6 percent salary increase for MPs

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BY JOSES SAREN

The Parliamentary Entitlements Commission (PEC) has defended its decision to award Members of Parliament a 6 percent cost of living adjustment (COLA), stating the increase was necessary to compensate for two years of delayed salary reviews and was made after extensive consultations with key economic stakeholders.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday, PEC Chairman Nigel Maizama addressed public concerns over the adjustment, which took effect on April 1, 2026, and clarified the constitutional process behind the decision.

“We do not make decisions arbitrarily or at the direction of any individual or authority.

“The Commission is carrying out an independent constitutional function and is not acting under political direction,” Maizama said.

Maizama explained that the Commission was unable to carry out its constitutional responsibilities following the prolonged illness of the late Chairman in 2023, which continued throughout 2024 until his passing on February 20, 2025. With no provision for an acting Chairman under existing regulations, the Commission was effectively paralyzed during this period.

Derek Vagi, Secretary – PEC said that public servants had already received COLA for 2024 and 2025, but MPs experienced delays because the Commission could not legally operate. The current 6 percent adjustment addresses those accumulated backlogs.

The Commission consulted extensively before finalizing its decision, Maizama said. Stakeholders included the Central Bank of Solomon Islands, the Ministry of Finance, the Budget Division, the Ministry of Public Service, the Attorney General’s Chambers, the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, and the Public Service Commission.

Advice from the Central Bank indicated that while the 2025 Consumer Price Index increase was 2.7 percent, the higher 6 percent adjustment was reasonable as compensation for the absence of salary increases during the two previous years.

Maizama also noted that the Ministry of Finance confirmed the adjustment could be accommodated within the national budget. The increase has already been implemented for seven months, with the government managing to meet the additional costs.

Under the adjustment, the Prime Minister’s annual salary now stands at $454,659.40, translating to a fortnightly salary of approximately $17,000.

Other positions and their annual salaries include:

· Deputy Prime Minister: $408,687.10

· Ministers, Leader of Opposition, Leader of Independent Group: $354,912.78

· Deputy Speaker, Chairperson of Parliamentary Standing Committees: $320,279.37

· Ordinary Members of Parliament: $288,615.02

Maizama outlined three crucial factors the Commission considers when determining salary adjustments:

1. Affordability – whether the economy and budget can support the increase

2. Sustainability – whether the increase can be maintained long-term

3. Reasonableness – whether the adjustment is fair given economic conditions

“These are crucial elements which the Commission is seriously looking at,” Maizama said, emphasizing that the Commission does not act in isolation but relies on professional advice from the Central Bank and Ministry of Finance.

Addressing public misconceptions, Maizama clarified that MP salaries are indeed taxed under the Income Tax Act. Only other benefits and allowances are not taxable.

When questioned about the disparity between MP salaries and those of public servants, Maizama acknowledged the gap but said the PEC’s mandate is limited to parliamentary entitlements.

“For public officers, I would rather leave it to the Ministry of Public Service to look at that. In terms of the disparity, yes, it’s there. We cannot say anything more,” he said.

He added, however, that MPs are “decision-makers for this nation” with significant responsibilities, including law-making, budget scrutiny, representing constituents, and debating national issues.

“You must look at what leaders play. We should also give them the right remuneration. But it has to be balanced with the economic and financial realities on the ground,” Maizama said.

The Commission will continue to conduct annual reviews of MP salaries as required by the Constitution, with the next review scheduled for November.

Photo credit: Joses Saren

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Guadalcanal gears up for 2nd appointed day celebrations

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BY TONY IROGA

The Guadalcanal Provincial Government has announced that preparations are well underway for the 2026 Guadalcanal Second Appointed Day celebrations, set for July 31 to August 3 under the theme, “Empowering Guadalcanal for National Unity and Prosperity”.

The four-day event will take place at SINU Village, Panatina, and the National Stadium, bringing together people from across Guadalcanal to celebrate the province’s culture, unity and development.

According to the Guadalcanal Province Second Appointed Day Committee, this year’s celebration will feature a colourful float parade, cultural performances, live entertainment, panel discussions and information displays by government ministries, agencies and private companies operating in the province.

The committee said residents on the west side will begin the float parade from Marara School, while participants from the east side will gather at the Black Post area before both groups converge at SINU Village.

“We encourage everyone to wear their constituency colours and come out to support their King and Queen as we celebrate Guadalcanal’s unity and identity,” it said.

The official opening ceremony will be held on Friday, July 31, at SINU Village, with the Honiara City Council Lord Mayor attending as the Guest of Honour. The celebrations will conclude on Monday, August 3.

Throughout the week, the Guadalcanal Cultural Village will host traditional cultural displays, demonstrations and side events, while local Guadalcanal bands, artists and string bands will provide entertainment.

Panel discussions involving former politicians, chiefs, church and community leaders, women and youth representatives will also be held to discuss issues affecting the province.

Information booths from government ministries, agencies and companies will be set up to provide services and information to the public.

The committee has invited all Guadalcanal constituencies, wards and companies operating within the province to participate in the float parade.

“We invite everyone to join us in celebrating Guadalcanal by bringing your colours, your voice and your community spirit,” it said.

It added that further details on entertainers, speech and choir competitions, and market stalls and vendors will be announced later this week.

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