BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Temotu Provincial Government has significant financial and administrative challenges relating to the province’s Youth Hub Centre fund, says Premier Stanley Tehiahua.

A $3 million grant agreement to construct Temotu Province’s first-ever Youth and Children Resource Centre was signed in 2021 between the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA) and the Temotu Provincial Government.

However, in an interview, Premier Tehiahua said the Youth Hub fund was later diverted by the previous administration as a temporary measure to address delays in the release of shipping grant funds intended for the province.

He said that the Youth Fund was borrowed for the Shipping Project, when a $5 million shipping grant was delayed during the previous government’s term.

He further adds that $3 million from the Youth Hub fund was borrowed with the understanding that it would be reimbursed once the shipping grant was received.

“It is understood that $1.4 million was paid as a down payment for a new vessel (LC Temotu) in Jakarta, Indonesia. However, the transaction reportedly involved a shipping broker who was later identified as a scammer.

“However, upon inspection in Jakarta, a team of eight crew members discovered that the landing craft did not meet Solomon Islands maritime requirements under national maritime regulations. The vessel required significant refitting before it could sail.

“The crew remained in Jakarta for several months to carry out the refitting work, leading to escalating costs. Crew allowances, paid in US dollars, increased daily during the extended stay,” he said.

He said that despite the setback, the vessel was eventually purchased and has arrived in the country.

“Approximately SBD $3.8 million in crew allowances remained unpaid. Around SBD $100,00 out of SBD $200,000 was outstanding for refitting expenses. Total inherited liabilities were estimated at more than SBD $4 million, with new claims later increasing the figure to over SBD $5 million,” he said.

He said that the total cost of the LC Temotu vessel is believed to exceed $12 million from $5 million from the national government through the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), $1.5 million from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) through the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), and other provincial contributions, including funds drawn from the Youth Hub grant.

“As a result of the financial strain caused by the vessel project, the Youth and Children Resource Centre have yet to be implemented. The balance remaining in the youth account is reportedly less than $100,000,” he said.

Photo: Supplied

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

John Kwaita and Simon Mannie have been acquitted of charges accusing them of instigating the 2021 riots.

Mr Kwaita and Mr Mannie were initially charged with one count of unlawful assembly contrary to sections 74 and 21 (a) of the penal code [Cap 26] and one count of arson contrary to sections 319(a) and 21 (d) of the penal code [Cap 26].

Principal Magistrate Felix Hollisonin court yesterday said it is indeed a long walk to freedom for the defendants since 2022.

Kwaita outside the Magistrate court told media that it was a relief as the case has been dragged over for long time and he was an innocent man all along.

He said he had no intention to come and take part in these riots.

Kwaita pointed out that if police had investigated and cared about justice, the two should not have been disadvantaged all along.

When asked how the charges affected him personally, he said it affected his integrity, tarnished his reputation as a leader and that the charges since 2021 belittled his credibility in the eyes of the public.

He pointed out that the bail conditions throughout the five-year period prohibited him from further business travels as his business requires him to travel overseas and hence, he feels that he has been robbed for five years.

“Justice delayed is justice denied,” he said.

He cautions authorities to always check their facts and do proper investigations with due diligence.

Moreover, Kwaita told Island Sun that he felt that he was politically and systematically targeted and that his case was fabricated.

However, he made it clear that it is not in his DNA to seek retribution but will always be willing to help others to not to fall into that same trap.

When asked if he is prepared to take any legal steps as to his economic losses he said he will have to wait for everything to sink in first.

The trial has been scheduled to take place from 9^th to 20^th February 2026.

The Acquittal Orders sealed and perfected by Principal Magistrate Hollison, yesterday noted on paragraph 2 that last week crown alerted the court as to the predicament that it faced especially the unavailability of its witnesses who are mostly police officers.

Special counsel Zurenuoc asked for an adjournment to Feb 16 for the possible commencement of the trial subject to the attendance of the witnesses.

The Court warned that it may proceed to dismiss the matter if the witnesses failed to turn up in court.

Alternatively, the crown was given the opportunity to withdraw the matter pursuant to the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Code [Cap 7] (CPC).

Principal Magistrate further noted at para 5 that the unavailability of the witnesses means that there is insufficient evidence or no evidence at all and the charges cannot be sustained.

The present charges against the defendant are now withdrawn pursuant to section 190 (2) (b) (i) of the CPC.

The acquittal orders also notes that the Courts administration shall expeditiously facilitate the reimbursement of the defendant’s respective cash bails.

The Principal Magistrate further notes that the matter against these two defendants former co accused Mr Knoxley Atu is still pending the setting of the trial dates later this year.

Ms Mary -Ann Zurenuoc, special counsel, the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions appears for the crown.

Mrs Delilah Eleteku Kukura Fagani, Public solicitors’ office appears for John Kwaita.

Mr Ronald Dive appears for Mr Simon Mannie.

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The case involving two Chinese nationals has been adjourned to February 25 for plea.

Chief Principal Magistrate Ricky Iomea heard the matter yesterday.

Both accused and the complainant are Chinese Nationals.

The incident happened on October 11, 2019.

The accused and the complainant namely Peter Huan, had an argument resulting in the accused using an iron rod to strike the complainant on his head while they were working for Unique Enterprise Shop.

The accused is charged with assault causing bodily harm to the victim- contrary to section 245 of the Penal Code.

The case is adjourned to February 25, 2026 for plea.

Prosecutions were directed to serve disclosures to the defence.

Counsel Mark Sina of Attorney at Law represents the accused while Counsel Selwyn Vaike of Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions represents the Crown in this matter.

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Solomon Islands tennis presence at Australian Open highlights ongoing support

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

SOLOMON Islands tennis continues to gain regional recognition following renewed Australian Government support for women and girls in the sport, highlighted by the recent participation of two national representatives at the Australian Open (AO).

According to the Australian High Commission, the Australian Government is partnering with Tennis Australia through its PacificAus Sports initiative to deliver the Pacific Women and Girls in Tennis program across the region.

The programme aims to strengthen governance within Pacific tennis organisations, expand access to high-performance training and coaching, and increase competitive opportunities for players, coaches and officials.

From Solomon Islands, Sandra Constantine and Amanda Korinihona of the Solomon Islands Tennis Federation (SITF) were among Pacific participants who attended the Australian Open and graduated from the 2025–26 Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis programme.

The leadership initiative is designed to empower Pacific women to take up roles on and off the court through professional development, mentoring and networking opportunities within the global tennis community.

The renewed regional support is backed by $1.2 million in funding from the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports elite pathways programme to continue the delivery of Tennis Australia’s women and girls’ development work.

Director of Government, Social Impact and Stakeholder Relations and Oceania Tennis Federation, President Vicki Reid said the partnership enables greater participation and leadership opportunities for women and girls across the Pacific.

“This partnership, with proven results, enables women and girls across the Pacific with the opportunity to play, coach and lead,” she said.

Australian Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Pat Conroy said the collaboration reflects a shared regional passion for sport.

“Australia and the Pacific come together through a shared love of sport. The Australian Government is proud to build on our successful partnership with Tennis Australia, through PacificAus Sports, to support women’s tennis across the Pacific,” Conroy said.

Assistant Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Nita Green added that increasing women’s representation in leadership strengthens organizations and inspires future generations.

“Increasing the representation of women in leadership roles makes organizations more resilient and inspires other women and girls to pursue their dreams,” she said.

The partnership builds on the success of the Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis programme, which has produced 40 alumni now serving in senior federation and board roles across the region.

During the Australian Open 2026, 12 Pacific women from eight countries – including Solomon Islands – were recognised at the AO Pacific Showcase Dinner, marking completion of the latest leadership cohort and reinforcing aspirations to grow the sport throughout the Pacific.

Women coaches and junior players also participated in regional Victorian tournaments and a development camp that focused on improving technical skills, confidence and match experience, further strengthening the pathway for emerging Pacific talent.

For Solomon Islands, the achievement of Constantine and Korinihona signals continued progress in women’s leadership and high-performance opportunities in tennis, supported through ongoing regional partnerships.

Photo: AHC

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BY TONY IROGA

THE Solomon Islands National University Taekwondo Club (SINU-TC) will close its door for registration this year at the end of this month.

Club management urges members of public who wish to join the club to register on time.

In an interview with Island Sun yesterday, SINU-TC coach Wilson Saeni said SINU Club offers sport and traditional taekwondo for both male and female from age 7 and above.

Mr Saeni said the training days are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, starting at 4.30pm at the Kukum Hall.

“The registration fees for membership is one hundred dollars for solid one year and it is open for both SINU students and public.

“Solomon Islands National University Taekwondo Club (SINU-TC) is a newly formed club which just started last year 2025,” he said.

He added that last year in 2025, the club graded over 70 students with different belts.

“The main aim of SINU Taekwondo Club is to share knowledge of Taekwondo for those who interested and keeping up young people fit, healthy and disciplined.

“The Solomon (SINU-TC) made an impressive debut by collecting a total of 12 medals in its first ever tournament appearance,” Saeni said.

He said in June last year SINU-TC claimed one gold medal under the 70kg female senior category, one silver medal in the under the 59kg male junior category, and 10 bronze metals bringing the total medal count to 12.

“Six taekwondo club based in Honiara participated in the Taekwondo Tournament Competition hosted by Focus Taekwondo Club at Hong Sun School.

“Solomon Islands National University Taekwondo Club (SINU-TC) is looking forward to welcome more new participants hoping to take part in any Taekwondo competition this year,” he said.

Photo: SINU

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Honiara Golf Club will hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on February 26 and members are urged to attend and support the running of the long-standing sporting institution.

According to a formal notice issued by the club, the meeting will take place at the Honiara Golf Club clubhouse and is scheduled to begin at 6.30pm, in line with the club’s constitutional requirement that the AGM be conducted at the end of February.

The notice emphasised that member participation is essential.

“A quorum of 40 financial members is required and all members are encouraged to attend to support your club,” a statement from HGC said.

Nominations are also open for all committee positions, with nomination forms available on the club noticeboard or from the manager’s office.

Completed forms must be submitted to the Club Manager or Secretary at least seven days before the meeting date.

Honorary Secretary Jim Forrester signed off on the notice dated February 12, 2026.

Established in 1957, Honiara Golf Club remains one of the capital’s oldest sporting venues. While golf is its main attraction, the club also offers a restaurant, tennis facilities and open recreational space for families and guests, making it a key social and sporting hub in Honiara.

Photo: Supplied

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

THE Western Province Network for Sustainable Environment carried out a massive cleanup campaign along the coast of Gizo yesterday, collecting large volumes of rubbish from the shoreline and seabed.

In an interview with the media, Dive Instructor of Dive Gizo, Raul Fernandes said his team uncovered and collected an enormous amount of rubbish, particularly tins, directly in front of the Gizo Market.

He said cans made up the majority of the trash, followed by plastic bottles and biscuit packets.

“Sad thing is that the marine life is still very active, some of which see the trash as their safe haven.

“It is important for people to understand that when they throw rubbish into the sea, it will not simply disappear. It will sink to the bottom of the sea where it will contaminate the surrounding marine life.

“Remember Solomon Islanders are connected to the sea and it is important to keep the sea clean,” Fernandes said.

He said his team has conducted three cleanup operations so far, but their efforts continue to fall short as people persist in throwing rubbish into the sea.

Programme Manager of Positive Change for Marine Life Gizo, Heyer Vavoso said the objective of the campaign is to collect tins and plastics along the shoreline and dispose of the rubbish at a proper dumping site.

He said divers removed tins and plastics from the Gizo Market area to the western end of Gizo town.

Vavoso said WPNSE has been trying its best to keep the Gizo shoreline clean, but tins continue to wash back onto the shore daily.

“Our challenge is people who come from the islands. We have come to realise that people from nearby islands are the ones throwing rubbish into the sea.

“Our sea is our important resource and we must protect what lives below the water,” he said.

Vavoso is calling on community leaders to advise people not to throw rubbish into the sea when visiting Gizo.

Chairlady of WPNSE, Mrs. Renee Regha Rario said the cleanup is part of the network’s ongoing plan to safeguard marine environments.

She said similar cleanups have been conducted previously to ensure marine life along the Gizo shoreline remain healthy.

Rario said marine resources are the lifeline for most Gizo residents and keeping the sea clean is vital.

“Fishermen catch fish within Gizo harbour; we also see seaweed sold at the market. These are important resources and our vision is to ensure Gizo harbour is clean and healthy,” she said.

The Western Province Network for Sustainable Environment includes Positive Change for Marine Life, World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Ecological Solutions Solomon Islands, Plasticwise Gizo and the Western Provincial Government.

Photos: Raul Fernandes

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

The Ministry of Forestry and Research (MoFR) has entered an endeavour vital for the country in terms of protecting the natural environment, conservation and more.

This comes as the ministry and Wildlife Works Carbon (WWC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the Mendana Hotel yesterday.

MoFR Permanent Secretary, Richard Raomae speaking at the occasion said the signing is a moment that not only marks the beginning of a partnership but is a shared commitment to safeguard the environment, empower communities and build a sustainable future for generations to come.

PS Raomae said the country’s small islands are blessed with rich biodiversity and vast natural resources but are facing the pressing challenges of climate change, deforestation and the need for sustainable livelihoods.

“By working hand in hand with Wildlife Works, we are embracing innovative solutions that place conservation at the heart of development.

“This partnership will help us protect our forests, reduce carbon emissions and create opportunities for our people, especially in rural communities, through sustainable economic initiatives,” he said.

PS Raomae said this is a demonstration of how environmental stewardship and human development can go together.

“On behalf of the Government of Solomon Islands, I extend my deepest gratitude to Wildlife Works for their commitment and collaboration,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary pointed out that together they are charting a path that honours our responsibility to the planet while ensuring that people benefit from the resources.

He also said that their role in informing and engaging the public is vital, as well as in ensuring transparency and building trust moving forward.

PS Raomae said the signing of the MOU should be a symbol of hope, unity and determination and an inspiration to all to continue to work towards a future where Solomon Island stands as a leader in conservation and sustainable development.

It is understood that the ministry has finally reached this stage today after four years of working with past governments on such an initiative.

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