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Busurata road near completion, boosting connectivity in Central Kwara’ae

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BY JUNELYN KELLY

The crucial repair and maintenance work on Busurata road is significantly progressing with 14-kilometers of the 15-kilometer unsealed network now completed.

A statement from the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) yesterday said this vital road connects the highlands of Central Kwara’ae in Malaita Province.

Jeremiah Foonota Managing Director of Exodus Trade Development Company, the local contractor overseeing the project said that the team has been actively implementing concrete drainage improvements in the areas susceptible to flooding and washouts.

“With a total of 26 crew members, we have been focusing on drainage work along sloping roads shoulders. Our team continues regravelling and compacting the road which are nearing completion” Foonota said.

Mr. Foonota said while heavy rainfall in recent months has occasionally delayed daily activities, he assures that progress will remain steady.

He said the completion of Busurata road is expected to significantly enhance connectivity and accessibility for the residents in the region.

MID said Exodus Trade Development Company, a key contractor is currently undertaking work on extensive clearance activities, overgrown vegetation and trees along the route.

This crucial work directly addresses road safety concerns by enhancing visibility for both vehicles and pedestrians, particularly in areas with deep ravines.

Mr. Foonota said clearing overgrown tress helps maintain drainage channels and road surfaces, as underground roots can cause water accumulation and erosion.

The Busurata road, which traverses one of Malaita’s primary agricultural regions, is funded through the National Transport Fund with substantial contributions from the Australian and Solomon Islands Governments.

The project’s overarching goals are to improve market access for local communities to enhance essential service delivery and ensure safer travel for people from communities in Kwara’ae.

Meanwhile, Central Kwara’ae is seeing infrastructure development unfold with the ongoing 9-kilometer Fulisango / Afio road repair project.

The Trades Transformation Company (TTC) has been contracted to undertaken these vital repairs which aim to improve connectivity and travel for local communities.

The Transport Infrastructure Management Service Division (TIMSD), based in Auki is providing critical oversight for the project.

TIMSD’s role is to ensure that all work adhere to stringent quality standards, guaranteeing the durability and effectiveness of the road repairs.

This project is part of broader efforts to enhance road network in the region, ultimately benefiting residents and facilitating economic activities.

Photo credit: MID

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Court jails man, fines $2,000 for repeated breach of protection order

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Magistrate Court on Tuesday, March 10, sentenced a 53-year-old man to 4 months’ imprisonment for persistently breaching a court protection order.

The defendant, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the victims, pleaded guilty to four counts of breach of a protection order, contrary to section 59 (1) of the Family Protection Act (FPA).

The court also ordered the defendant to pay a total penalty fine of $2,000 payable by 4:30 pm today (Monday, March 16).

Failure to pay by 4:30 pm today, the defendant further risks being imprisoned for 3 months in addition to the current 4 months custodial sentence imposed last week, to be served at the correctional facility at Rove in Honiara.

The court considered that the repetition of the same offence for at least four times, together with the breach of the court order and the use of a weapon on one of the occasions which almost injured his own daughter, are in itself, an aggravating feature of the offence.

Principal Magistrate Felix Hollison at the sentence ruling said both custodial sentence and penalty fine are appropriate for this case.

The principal magistrate said that the outcome of this case would deter the defendant from committing any form of domestic violence or breaching of any court order in the future.

The complainant is a 52-year-old female.

Both the complainant and the defendant were legally married and have four children.

In 2019, the complainant and the defendant separated, and the defendant married the complainant’s niece.

According to the ruling, an interim protection order was issued in 2023.

Subsequent to that, a final protection order was issued in 2024 against the defendant, with conditions to be complied with.

The final Protection order has conditions which prohibited the defendant from entering their family property residence at Henderson.

It also directed the defendant to allow the complainant and her children to ‘recover, have access or make use of any specified personal property’.

The defendant made an application in 2025 to revoke the conditions of the protection order.

However, the court refused the revocation application and instead ordered the complainant and the four children to reside at their matrimonial property until the issue of ownership is determined.

The ruling also noted that the defendant’s right of appeal applies.

Ms Barret Jillian Raoga from the Police Prosecutions Department represents the crown and Mr Jeremy Saeni, Senior Legal Officer, Public Solicitors’ Office, represents the defendant.

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High Court begins trial on LSL–Gov’t land dispute

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BY NED GAGAHE

The long-running legal battle between Levers Solomons Limited (LSL) and the Solomon Islands Government over the forfeiture and compulsory acquisition of large areas of land in Guadalcanal is expected to go to trial in the High Court starting today.

The trial is scheduled to begin at 9.30am at the High Court and could continue into next week.

The case involves around 780 land titles covering approximately 2,000 hectares of land in areas including Lungga, Henderson, Bloody Ridge, Alligator Creek and Tenaru, where the titles are currently registered under Levers Solomons Limited.

Historical records indicate that Levers, operating under various similar names and different ownership over the years, has held land titles in these areas for more than 100 years.

Most of the land titles involved are Fixed Term Estates (FTEs) which the government has moved to forfeit, based on allegations by the Commissioner of Lands that the company failed to develop and maintain the land for agricultural purposes as required under the terms of the grants.

In addition to forfeiture, some of the FTE titles have also been compulsorily acquired by the government under declarations that the land is required for public purposes.

One such area includes Hells Point, which is currently used by the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF).

Company Haus records show that Levers Solomons Limited is owned by International Comtrade and Shipping (SI) Limited and Lavukal Investment Company Limited.

The dispute dates back to 2020, when the government decided that all Fixed Term Estates held by LSL in Guadalcanal should be taken back by the government.

To implement the decision, the government initiated two legal processes: forfeiture, claiming that the company had breached conditions attached to the land titles, and compulsory acquisition, where land can be taken by the state for public purposes.

Following the decision, the Commissioner of Lands and the Minister for Lands issued public notices on Friday, March 28 and April 3, 2025 to formalise the forfeiture and acquisition process.

However, LSL on April 7, 2025 filed an application in the High Court for urgent interim orders against the Commissioner’s notice, challenging the government’s actions, contesting the legality of the forfeiture notices and the acquisition procedures.

The company argues that the government cannot legally seize the Fixed Term Estate titles through the process used and is seeking to have the decisions overturned.

The matter has resulted in multiple court proceedings and remains unresolved.

Despite the legal challenge, the government has maintained its intention to reclaim the land, while Levers Solomons Limited continues to dispute the move through the courts.

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GOVT ‘FLUID’

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Solomon Islands National Parliament

A motion of no-confidence brewing against PM Manele as members within GNUT coalition plan mass resignation

BY IRWIN ANGIKI

Government is on shaky grounds as a mass walkout is expected this week and a motion of no-confidence, it is reported.

Members of the two main partners in the grand coalition of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) have reportedly rallied together to remove Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.

Sources within government told Island Sun yesterday that 25 in total are ready to resign from the GNUT coalition and team up with members from the opposition benches to form a new government.

PM Manele could not comment last night when sought for comment, telling Island Sun – “No comments at this time as situation still fluid”.

Government MPs speaking to Island Sun on condition of anonymity, say they do not have confidence in PM Manele’s leadership, describing it as ‘weak’.

“At the heart of the PM Manele’s weak leadership is his bowing down to the 3Ts in every cabinet and government decision. PM Manele does not make the decisions, he instead reverts to the 3Ts to make the decisions. And, we have had enough,” one of the government MPs said.

‘3T’ is the acronym within the government circle for three government MPs – Jimson Tanangada, MP for Gizo Kolombangara and minister for police and national security (MPNSCS), Bradley Tovosia, MP for East Guadalcanal and minister for fisheries (MFMR), and Namson Tran, MP for West Honiara and chairman of caucus.

Mr Tanangada in a desperate act on Friday last week messaged members of the OUR Party pleading for solidarity and urging them to be wary of the People First Party (PFP).

OUR and PFP are the main parties in the GNUT coalition. Other parties include Kandere and U4C.

Tanangada has not responded to questions sent him by Island Sun yesterday.

In his Whatsapp message, Tanangada accused PFP of being ‘deceitful’.

“Their [PFP] actions appear once again aimed at creating division within OUR Party in order to advance the narrow interests of a few individuals.

“I therefore humbly call upon each of you to open your eyes, remain alert, and recognise the calculated efforts being made to repeat the same old tactics designed to weaken our unity. Let us not fall into this trap,” Tanangada said.

Government MPs told Island Sun that PFP have contacted OUR Party members to remove PM Manele and form a new government under a new prime minister.

PFP party leader, Fredrick Kologeto has not responded to enquiries by Island Sun sent him yesterday. Mr Kologeto is MP for South Vella la Vella, and minister for communications and aviation, and deputy prime minister.

“PFP have been in talks with all the OUR Party members except PM Manele and the 4Ts [Tanangada, Tran, Tovosia and Tozen],” the government MPs told Island Sun.

Tozen Leokana is MP for South Choiseul and minister of education (MEHRD).

“As of today [Sundy, March 15] we have 25 in total from OUR and PFP who are ready to resign from the GNUT coalition and call for change in leadership. We have others from the opposition sides who will join us,” the government sources said.

Yesterday lunchtime, senior PFP MPs were seen in one of the Chinese restaurants in Henderson with Gordon Darcy Lilo and two other members from the opposition and independent benches.

A larger meeting was held later in the evening at the Paul Tovua Complex near the parliament house among members of PFP, opposition and independent.

Government sources told Island Sun, Mr Lilo is ‘being considered as one of the candidates for prime minister if the move goes through’.

Lilo, MP for Central Honiara, has not responded to attempts by this paper for his comments yesterday.

As for the notion of a possible special parliament session called for today, Clerk to Parliament Jefferson Hallu told Island Sun last night that there was none.

Meanwhile, this could be a replay of the first motion of no-confidence against PM Manele in December 2024, which was reportedly instigated by PFP and moved by MP Lilo.

PFP back-tracked in the last eleventh hour and Lilo was forced to withdraw the motion on December 16, 2024, on the floor of parliament.

PM Manele has survived two motions of no-confidence; in December 2024 and May 2025.

A third one was reportedly brewing in October 2025 but was abandoned.

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HOME CROWD BOOST

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Kings banking on local support in crucial Pro League clash

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Solomon Kings FC head coach Ben Cahn is hoping a passionate home crowd at the National Stadium in Honiara will provide the spark his side needs as the OFC Pro League Round 4 kicks off today.

The Kings will face Auckland FC at 7:00pm this evening, after the opening match between Hekari United FC and South Island United FC earlier this afternoon.

Speaking in a one-on-one interview with Island Sun shortly after the official press conference yesterday, Cahn said playing in front of home supporters could play a decisive role.

“I’m hoping it’s a big advantage.

“We had a lot of supporters from the Solomon community in Melbourne and I know the boys responded really well. When they got tired and it got difficult, looking out and seeing all the Solo flags was a really special moment for them,” Cahn said.

He believes a similar atmosphere in Honiara could give the players the extra push they need during difficult moments in the match.

“Of course, being at home and having so many people at the game and interested in the game can add pressure as well.

“So, it’s really important that we start the game well, start with a good tempo and keep the crowd on our side,” he said.

The Kings currently sit among the top three teams in the competition standings, putting them in a strong position as the tournament progresses.

Cahn said the immediate objective is clear — secure a place in the top four before the competition splits.

“Well, the competition format splits into top four and bottom four.

“If you want to go to the finals, it’s a big advantage to be in the top four, so our goal is very simple — make sure that by the end of the round in Fiji we’re in the top four before the split and then go to Auckland,” he said.

Despite their strong position, the coach admitted that the team still has areas that need improvement following a demanding run of matches earlier in the competition.

He pointed to the Kings’ recent match against South Melbourne FC as one that did not fully reflect the team’s true performance level.

“We had four games in 11 days.

“They only had three games and an extra day’s rest, which in this format of competition is really important. I’m not too harsh on the boys because they gave everything. It was just one game too many in such a short period of time,” Cahn said.

Cahn emphasized that the project at Solomon Kings is about more than just immediate results.

“From day one I’ve said it’s a long-term project.

“It’s about building the Kings, building for the national team and building for the future generations in the Solomon Islands. We want to improve everything so that we can become a really strong force in Oceania football in the years to come,” he said.

The coach also used the opportunity to thank supporters across the country for the warm reception he has received since taking up the role.

“On a personal note, I’ve been so humbled and grateful for the welcome and the support everyone has shown.

“I’m not from the Solomon Islands, but I feel like I’m a Solomon Islander already,” Cahn said.

He urges fans to pack the stands and support the team through every moment of the match.

“Win, lose or draw, I promise the boys will give everything.

“I really hope we see as many people as possible in the stands on Saturday supporting the team through the highs and lows of the game,” he said.

With the home crowd expected to turn out in numbers, the Kings will be hoping that the energy from the stands can help carry them one step closer to the Pro League finals.

Photo credit: OFC

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Auckland FC wary of Solomon Kings challenge despite top spot

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By RICHARD MENANOPO

Table leaders Auckland FC remain cautious heading into their highly anticipated OFC Pro League Round 4 clash; with head coach Luke Casserly acknowledging that his side still has much to improve despite sitting at the top of the standings.

Casserly made the remarks during a one-on-one interview with Island Sun following the official press conference at the National Stadium in Honiara on Friday morning ahead of today’s Round 4 fixtures.

While Auckland currently leads the competition, the coach insisted that maintaining focus remains the priority as they prepare to face Solomon Islands’ Solomon Kings once again.

“When I speak to the players, I always say the next game is the most important game.

“Every game is important. We want to keep improving,” Casserly said.

The Auckland coach admitted that their previous encounter with Solomon Kings exposed weaknesses in his team’s performance, with the home side proving the better team on that occasion.

“Obviously the last time we played Solomon Kings, they were fantastic.

“They thoroughly deserved their victory. It’s a really good challenge. But every time we go into a game we go in trying to win the match. It will be no different when we are here,” he said.

Auckland FC’s defensive strength has been one of the key factors behind their strong run in the competition so far, conceding only five goals in the league. However, Casserly credits the team’s success more to the attitude and commitment shown by his players.

“I think the work ethic of the players.

“The players have really embraced what we are trying to do. And in every match I can never question the work ethic. All the players give everything every match, which is as a coach all you can ask for,” he said.

Despite their current position at the top of the table, Casserly believes the competition is far from decided.

“We are sitting where we are, but it’s only really halfway. We still have a long way to go,” he said.

Asked whether the pressure of leading the standings affects the team, the Auckland coach said the expectation to perform has remained the same since the start of the tournament.

“The pressure is the same every game.

“As I said, every game we want to win every game. We know that’s not going to happen. You are never going to win every game. But that’s the intention,” he said.

Looking ahead to Saturday’s match, Casserly highlighted several key areas his side must improve following their last meeting with Solomon Kings.

“I think in all areas of that match Solomon Kings was better. We were second best everywhere.

“We have to be more organized and more focused defensively. And definitely our ability to retain possession and not turn the ball over so much,” he said.

He added that Solomon Kings’ ability to control possession and convert chances made them difficult opponents.

“They kept the ball. It was difficult to get it. They made chances and took their chances,” he said.

With the match set to be played in front of a passionate football crowd in Honiara, Casserly said his players are looking forward to the atmosphere despite the home advantage enjoyed by Solomon Kings.

“Hopefully the crowd also helps us so that the players get a big boost by having to perform in front of a big crowd.

“We know they will obviously be cheering for the home team. But hopefully that helps us as well,” he said.

Weather conditions could also play a role, Casserly added, noting that his team struggled previously in hot conditions.

“The weather is a difficult one. It’s a challenge.

“But hopefully playing in the evening tomorrow it’s not too hot and the players are able to handle it,” he said.

Round 4 of the OFC Pro League kicks off today at the National Stadium in Honiara, with Auckland FC aiming to maintain their lead while Solomon Kings look to capitalize on home support.

Photo credit: OFC

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Solomon Kings and South Island United eye third spot for round 4

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BY TONY IROGA

South Island United will have a big chance to secure a third spot if kings lose their first match against Auckland FC in the national stadium at 7pm this evening.

Solomon Kings will meet two tough opponents in their round 4 matches in OFC Pro League here in Honiara.

The second game of Solomon Kings will be tougher game against South Melbourne FC on Thursday March 19th.

In an interview with Island Sun yesterday Solomon Kings head coach, Mr Ben Cahn said they will show what they have against Auckland FC at 7 pm.

He added that the game against Auckland will not be easy.

Ben Cahn head coach of Solomon Kings FC appeals to all Solomon Islands supporters to continue rally support behind Solomon Kings towards two matches in the home ground.

According to OFC Pro League standings Solomon Kings secured third spot, leading the South Island United with 4 points up.

Speaking to the paper as well yesterday was South Island United head coach Mr Rob Sherman who said that they have drawn a lot of games and in truth the game that they lost heavily was against South Melbourne.

Sherman said it is not a bad thing because they learn from it and sometimes just drawing or winning games, if you’re not careful you don’t learn.

“So hopefully we’ve learned some lessons from that and we’ll see whether we can execute those solutions against PNG and against the Buller FC,” he said.

South Island United will meet PNG Hekari FC today in Honiara at the national stadium at 3pm.

Meanwhile, their second match will be against Bula FC on Thursday March 19th.

He said it is going to be a tough game today against PNG Hekari but they just need a win to accumulate their points up.

“Well for our second match we will do our best when meet up with Bula FC and we just need a win.

“I think we played friendly here about three times and I came here with OFC when I was consulting,” he said.

He said in fairness, not every pitch in New Zealand is pristine so the boys are used to variations.

“It’s a great facility in fairness and so there’s no excuses, so ultimately, we’ll cut it up for everyone else, it’s an excellent facility and there’s no complaints,” he said.

Photo credit: Tony Iroga

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Government to provide financial support for Solomon Kings

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

The government will provide financial assistance to support Solomon Kings FC as they prepare to compete in the Oceania Professional Football League.

A statement from the Press Secretariat of the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) said the Prime Minister announced this during a special dinner to introduce the Solomon Kings to corporate sponsors and government representatives at the SIFF Futsal Hall in Honiara last night.

Manele in his remarks, emphasised that the government recognises the important role sport plays in regards to strengthening national identity, empowering young people, and promoting unity across the country.

He also confirmed that Cabinet has approved financial support for the team as part of the government’s commitment to assist the Solomon Kings in their participation at the regional professional level.

“Cabinet has approved financial assistance to support the Solomon Kings in their participation in the Oceania Professional Football League,” he said.

The Prime Minister said the Ministry of Finance and Treasury and relevant authorities are facilitating the necessary arrangements so that the team can adequately prepare and compete with confidence.

He said the government’s support is a reflection of their belief in the power of sport to inspire young people and unite communities across the country.

“Sport continues to play an important role in nation building. Through initiatives such as this, we can inspire our youth, strengthen national unity, and proudly represent Solomon Islands on the regional stage,” he said.

The statement noted that the government reaffirms its commitment to work with stakeholders, including the Solomon Islands Football Federation, the private sector, and development partners to strengthen football and expand opportunities for young athletes across the country.

Photo credit: Press Secretariat, OPMC

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Prime Minister Manale pledges support for Kings Army and Solomon Kings FC

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BY JUNELYN KELLY

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has pledged his full support to the growing supporter’s movement known as the “Kings Army”, throwing his full support behind the country’s Solomon Kings FC team as they prepare to host two crucial Round 4 fixtures of the OFC Professional League in Honiara in the next couple of days.

A statement from the Press Secretariat of the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) said he made the announcement during a special dinner to formally introduce the Solomon Kings squad to corporate sponsors and government partners at the SIFF Futsal Hall last night.

Manele in his address, expressed great enthusiasm for the emergence of the Kings Army, a passionate supporters’ movement expected to bring vibrant energy, colour, and unwavering national pride to every Solomon Kings match.

“I look forward with great anticipation to the introduction of the Kings Army,” the Prime Minister said. “And I must say tonight, I look forward to being part of the Kings Army myself,” he said.

The Prime Minister also commended the management, coaching staff and players of the Solomon Kings team for their vision, courage and commitment in taking the bold step to represent the Solomon Islands at the professional level in Oceania.

He spoke directly to the players, reminding them of the profound responsibility they carry as representatives of the nation.

“When you step onto the field, remember that you represent a nation of proud people and rich cultures. Play with courage, discipline and unity, knowing that the whole country will be cheering you on—from villages and towns to communities across our islands,” he said.

The statement said the Prime Minister’s declaration drew resounding applause from guests and supporters in attendance, reflecting the growing wave of national support behind the Solomon Kings and their historic participation in the regional professional competition.

“The Solomon Kings will face Auckland FC on Saturday 14 March 2026, followed by a highly anticipated match against South Melbourne FC on Thursday, 19 March 2026.

“These matches mark a significant milestone for Solomon Islands football, as the nation comes together to support its team on the regional stage,” the statement said.

Photo credit: Press Secretariat, OPMC

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Minister Agovaka Advocates for Climate Finance at Commonwealth Event

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BY JUNELYN KELLY

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, (MFAET) Peter Shanel Agovaka recently participated in a significant High-level Panel focused on “Scaling Climate Finance across the Commonwealth”.

A press statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs yesterday said the panel session was held on March 10th at Carlton House in London and was a key component of the wider Commonwealth network investment showcase.

Agovaka in his address at the event, underscored the critical importance of greenfield investment in fostering sustainable growth and strengthening climate resilience within Commonwealth nation.

Greenfield investments, which involve creating new facilities from scratch are seen as crucial for developing infrastructure and industries that are specifically designed to be environmentally sustainable and adaptable to climate change impacts.

The statement said the commonwealth network investment showcase itself was launched on March 8th, coinciding with the 26th Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers meeting.

It is also said to have served as a platform to highlight investment opportunities and partnership across the Commonwealth with a particular emphasis on initiatives that align with sustainable development goals and climate action.

Minister Agovaka’s participation reinforced the commitment of Solomon Islands in addressing global climate challenges through strategic financial engagement and innovative investment strategies.

Photo credit: MFAET

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