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Premier Asilau’a congratulates Prime Minister Wale

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BY RODRICK DESURI

AUKI

Malaita Premier Elijah Asilau’a has congratulated newly elected Prime Minister Matthew Cooper Wale following his successful election as the new leader of Solomon Islands on Friday, May 15, 2026.

Premier Asilau’a joined leaders from across the country and the region in acknowledging Prime Minister Wale’s election, describing it as the beginning of a new chapter of hope, unity and renewed commitment for the nation.

“As the Premier of Malaita Province, on behalf of the Executive Members, Members of the Provincial Assembly and the good people of Malaita Province, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to you on your election as the new Prime Minister of Solomon Islands,” Asilau’a said.

He said the people of Malaita pray that God will grant the new Prime Minister wisdom, strength, humility and courage as he leads the country through future opportunities and challenges.

Premier Asilau’a said the Malaita Provincial Government, under the Malaita Economic Cooperation and Transformation Government, remains committed to strengthening collaboration with Prime Minister Wale and the new coalition government.

He said Malaita Province looks forward to aligning closely with the national government to maximise resources and shared responsibilities through political cooperation, economic partnership and development collaboration.

“Together, we can build stronger partnerships with development partners to empower our communities, improve education and health services, create better learning and career pathways for our young people, and strengthen healthy human resources for the future,” he said.

The Premier said Malaita remains focused on building a vibrant 21st-century society where people can enjoy healthy and prosperous livelihoods through collaboration and participation at all levels.

He added that investment in productive sectors, economic diversification, improved manufacturing and services, and better road infrastructure connectivity would create employment opportunities, improve trade and marketing, raise living standards and reduce poverty in communities across the province.

“With unity, cooperation and a shared vision, we look forward to working closely with your government,” he said.

Premier Asilau’a also acknowledged former Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and the previous Government for National Unity and Transformation for development achievements made during their leadership.

“We sincerely acknowledge and thank former Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and the successive Government for National Unity and Transformation for the milestones achieved across multiple sectors of development,” he said.

Prime Minister Matthew Cooper Wale was elected on May 15 after securing 26 votes in Parliament following a motion of no confidence against former Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.

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SICCI welcomes PM’s commitment to economic reform and indigenous business empowerment

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SICCI) has welcomed Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s pledge to drive urgent economic reforms and support indigenous businesses.

SICCI Chairlady Ms. Namoi Kaluae led a delegation to congratulate the Prime Minister on his recent election and to reaffirm the Chamber’s readiness to work closely with the new government, a statement from the SICCI said.

During the meeting, Ms. Kaluae highlighted upcoming SICCI events such as the Prime Minister’s Dinner, the PNG-SI Business Forum, and the Business Excellence Awards in November.

She also raised key advocacy priorities including electricity costs, local content, and the SME Bill draft.

Prime Minister Wale thanked SICCI for its support and emphasised the importance of government and the private sector in working together to reduce the cost of living and to strengthen the economy.

He noted that empowering indigenous businesses is a central policy of his administration, with further announcements expected soon.

The courtesy visit reflects SICCI’s ongoing commitment to fostering a conducive business environment and collaborating with government on economic recovery and inclusive growth.

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New SSPM Appointed

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BY NED GAGAHE

Celsus Talifilu has been appointed as the new Special Secretary to Prime Minister (SSPM) Matthew Wale.

The appointment was made yesterday, Tuesday, by the Office of the Prime Minister.

Mr Talifilu confirmed the appointment to Island Sun last night.

“Yes, I can confirm that I got that appointment today.

“I am honoured to be appointed as the SSPM, mainly to support the new Prime Minister and the country’s government,” he said.

He added that it is always a privilege to serve alongside leaders, especially a Prime Minister willing to challenge the status quo and bring in the changes the country badly needs at this stage of its young democracy.

Island Sun understands that joining him in the Prime Minister’s office is Press Secretary Douglas Marau, a seasoned journalist who has served under three Prime Ministers and two Opposition Leaders.

Prominent Lawyer Gabriel Suri has also been appointed as the new Attorney General.

Celsus Talifilu is a well-known public policy professional in Solomon Islands. Before this appointment, he served as policy secretary to Matthew Wale when he was the Opposition Leader.

He has previously served as the political advisor to former Malaita Province Premier late Daniel Suidani.

Mr Talifilu also worked briefly under the DCGA government and with other previous administrations, mainly within the PIEMU under the Prime Minister’s political office at OPMC.

Photo: Supplied

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SI students scoop best diplomacy award at Beijing Model United Nations

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BY NED GAGAHE

Two Solomon Islands students studying in China have brought pride to the nation after winning the Best Diplomacy Award at the 2026 Beijing International Model United Nations.

Mr Nelson Ameo and Mr Leslie Fugui, both students at China Foreign Affairs University in Beijing, received the award following their participation in the prestigious international event held from May 14 to 17.

A statement from Chinese Embassy said the pair represented New Zealand in the UNICEF Committee, where delegates debated the topic: “Strengthening Child-Friendly Cities under Climate Transition.”

The annual Beijing International Model United Nations is recognised as the largest International Model United Nations simulation in the Asia-Pacific region and has been running for more than 30 years.

This year’s conference brought together more than 800 students and faculty members from over 170 secondary schools and universities across China and overseas.

The event featured 11 committees conducted in English, Chinese, French and Spanish, and was hosted by China Foreign Affairs University under the direction of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Education.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, United Nations China Resident Coordinator Stephen Jackson said Model United Nations programs help shape future global leaders.

“Model United Nations is not just a simulation, it is a laboratory that breeds and nurtures future diplomats and policymakers,” he said.

The Solomon Islands Embassy in Beijing congratulated the two students for their achievement, describing it as an inspiring milestone for young Solomon Islanders studying abroad.

The Embassy also encouraged young people across the country to actively participate in debates and discussions on national, regional and global issues affecting the Solomon Islands and the Blue Pacific region.

Photo credit: Chinese Embassy, SI

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Man fined $600 for playing loud music, disturbing his neighbours

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Central Magistrate’s Court has entered a fine sentence of $600 on a man who pleaded guilty to playing loud music late at night, causing annoyance and disturbing his neighbours.

Sammy Sui, 30, from Malaita Province, was charged with common nuisance contrary to Section 172 of the penal code.

The court heard that on the night of Thursday, April 23, 2026, the defendant was celebrating with his brother, who had just returned from seasonal work overseas. They were drinking beers and playing loud music at an excessive volume on a big speaker at his residence.

The complainant in this case is Mr David Susui, who was at his residence at Feraladoa, East Honiara, approximately 15 metres away from the defendant’s residence.

Principal Magistrate Paile explained to the defendant in court that the noise level was unreasonable within that time period, between 10 pm and 11 pm, where it disturbed the peace and comfort of surrounding residents staying at their homes.

She further reminded the defendant in court that the residential area at Feraladoa, comprised a cluster of houses close to each other.  

“A residential area is not a nightclub where one is allowed to play loud music at night with shouting and drinking,” Mrs Paile told the defendant.

The Principal Magistrate entered a conviction based on the defendant’s guilty plea and was of the view that a fine sentence of $600 is appropriate.

The defendant was reminded in court that the amount of $600 must be paid to the court at the registry by Friday, May 29.

In default of the payment, the defendant will have to serve a further 30 days at the Rove Correctional Centre.

Moffat Tei from the Police Prosecutions prosecuted the case, and Jason Anisi from the Public Solicitors’ Office represented the offender in court.

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Man fined $300 for illegal street selling

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Magistrates’ Court has fined a man $300 for illegally selling goods within the Honiara City boundaries without a valid hawker’s licence.

Charlie Kali, of Temotu Province, was charged with one count of hawking in a public place without a hawker’s licence, contrary to Section 3(1) of the principal Hawkers Ordinance and Section 3(2) of the Honiara City Council (Hawkers) Amendment Ordinance 2023.

The court heard that Kali was formally arrested and charged on March 30, 2026, after Honiara City Council (HCC) law enforcement officers spotted him selling knives, files and dozens of spoon sets to members of the public in front of Talon Shop at Point Cruz.

The defendant failed to appear during his previous court appearances, prompting the court to issue a warrant for his arrest.

HCC law enforcement officers executed the warrant on Monday, leading to his re-arrest and appearance before the court to enter his plea.

Principal Magistrate Ben Alasia presided over the matter during sentencing earlier this week.

Kali pleaded guilty to the charge and was ordered to pay a fine of $300 by 9am on Monday, May 25.

Failure to pay the fine will result in him serving one month imprisonment at Rove Correctional Centre.

The court considered the defendant’s personal circumstances before imposing the penalty.

Head of HCC Law Enforcement Unit, Robert Madeo, earlier told Island Sun that officers will continue to enforce the regulation through mobile patrols and monitoring within the Honiara township area.

Mr Madeo also warned street vendors against engaging in illegal hawking activities, saying offenders will be arrested and charged.

The maximum penalty for hawking in a public place without a hawker’s licence is a fine of $1,000 or 40 days imprisonment.

Harry Bisafo prosecuted the matter on behalf of HCC, while Kali represented himself in court.

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Court to sentence repeat traffic offender on Friday

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

A man who pleaded guilty to multiple traffic offences will be sentenced by the Magistrates’ Court on Friday this week.

Alick Sulu Misitana, 51, from Malaita Province, appeared before the court yesterday facing three charges: using an unlicensed motor vehicle, using an uninsured motor vehicle and driving without a valid driver’s licence.

Misitana pleaded guilty to all three charges.

The court heard that on April 6, 2026, between 9:30am and 10am, police officers conducting routine patrols around the Honiara Central Market area spotted a vehicle they believed to be unlicensed.

The vehicle was stopped near ITA Hardware, where officers identified the driver as Misitana and the vehicle as a white Toyota Corolla.

Checks conducted by officers from the Kukum National Traffic Unit confirmed that the vehicle license, insurance and the driver’s license were all expired.

The defendant was formally charged and later released on principal bail of $1,000.

Police Prosecutor Moffat Tei informed the court that Misitana was not a first-time offender and had previously been convicted and fined $1,700 three weeks earlier for similar traffic offences, a fine which remains unpaid.

In response, Principal Magistrate Joyceth Paile asked the prosecutor whether a warrant of default had been issued against the defendant for failing to pay the earlier fine.

The prosecutor told the court he would need to confirm the matter with the court clerk.

Principal Magistrate Paile also questioned Misitana about why he failed to pay the previous fine.

The defendant told the court he had attempted to make a partial payment of $100, but claimed the court clerk refused to accept it and did not clearly explain the due date for payment.

Misitana further explained that he relies on selling and transporting fish and chips to the Honiara Central Market as his main source of income to support himself and pay the fines.

He also apologised to the court for breaching the law.

Principal Magistrate Paile ordered the defendant to pay $500 as principal bail and reminded him that the bail was imposed to ensure his attendance at the next court hearing.

She further warned that failure to appear in court on the next date would result in forfeiture of the bail amount for failing to comply with court orders.

The matter was adjourned to Friday, May 22, at 9am for sentencing.

Moffat Tei prosecuted the matter on behalf of the Office of the Police Prosecutions Department (OPPD), while Misitana represented himself in court.

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ACCOUNTABILITY CALL

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TSI calls on Wale government to stay transparent and accountable

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Anti-corruption watchdog Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) calls on the new government led by Prime Minister Matthew Wale to uphold transparency, accountability and good governance as it assumes office.

In a statement this week, TSI congratulated Mr Wale on his election and acknowledged the constitutional and democratic process undertaken by Parliament in selecting the country’s new leader.

The organisation said Solomon Islands is entering a critical period and urges the new administration to place the national interest at the centre of all decision-making.

TSI said that citizens continue to face major social and economic challenges, including the rising cost of living, unemployment, poor service delivery and growing public frustration over political instability and governance concerns.

It said the public expects leadership that is principled, inclusive and committed to restoring trust in government institutions.

The watchdog also urges the government to strengthen the rule of law, respect democratic institutions and enhance anti-corruption measures and governance systems.

It further calls for the responsible and equitable management of public resources, with a focus on policies that improve the welfare and livelihoods of Solomon Islanders.

TSI appeals to all Members of Parliament, regardless of political affiliation, to prioritise national interest over personal or political ambitions.

The organisation welcomes remarks made by Prime Minister Wale following his official declaration in Parliament on Friday, May 15.

In his maiden address, Mr Wale acknowledged global economic pressures affecting Solomon Islands and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to disciplined and prudent management during challenging times.

TSI said the Prime Minister’s call for increased productivity and participation in economic activities reflects the need for collective national effort to address development challenges.

The organisation also welcomed Mr Wale’s recognition of the role of young people in nation-building.

TSI said it remains ready to work with government, Parliament and development partners to strengthen democratic governance and integrity systems in Solomon Islands.

Prime Minister Wale, in his maiden speech, described his election as a privilege and honour, while urging citizens to hold his government accountable.

“I will not trifle with this privilege and the government that I lead will do its utmost to serve. Please help keep us accountable and responsible,” he said.

Mr Wale also warned that his administration is taking office during difficult times and said some decisions ahead may not be easy.

“We take government at a difficult time… but we will exercise discipline and prudent management,” he said, adding that reforms may be painful but necessary.

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OPEN TO ALL

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SICF to host first chess tournament this Sunday

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands Chess Federation will stage its first chess tournament for 2026 this Sunday at White River School in Honiara as part of efforts to revive and strengthen competitive chess in the country.

The tournament will also officially introduce the federation’s new executive team while bringing together both experienced and upcoming chess players from across the capital.

According to information shared by Federation President, Simon Chottu through the federation’s social media platform, the event is open to all ages and welcomes both male and female participants, including beginners, casual players, former champions and rising talents.

Registration for the tournament is set at SBD $20, with prize money also up for grabs for top-performing players.

The federation said the tournament aims to rebuild excitement around the sport while creating more opportunities for players to compete regularly.

A major highlight of the event will be the introduction of a new “Challenge Match” initiative, which will feature a special showdown between local players Junior Lui and Fred R.

The federation explained that the Challenge Match concept will now become a regular feature in future tournaments, allowing players to challenge one another in featured contests designed to build rivalries and increase interest in the sport.

“From now on, every tournament will feature a special Challenge Match where two players battle it out on the board,” the federation stated.

The federation added that players will also be given opportunities to submit their names for future featured matches following Sunday’s challenge encounter.

According to the federation, the initiative is intended to bring back strong competitive chess, encourage new talents to rise, unite old and new players, and make the game more active and entertaining for everyone involved.

The tournament will take place on Sunday 24th May at White River School and is open to all interested participants.

The Solomon Islands Chess Federation in recent years been working to rebuild local participation in chess through community-based competitions and public engagement activities that aim to attract more young people into the sport.

The federation’s slogan for the upcoming event is: “One Board. One Goal. One Champion.”

Photo credit: Solomon Islands Chess Federation/Facebook

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Solomon Islands Iron Lady shares emotional appreciation after Canada victory

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BY TONY IROGA

Solomon Islands weightlifting champion Jenly Wini has shared an emotional message of appreciation following her recent success in Montreal, Canada, describing the journey to her latest achievement as one filled with sacrifice, hard work and faith.

In a heartfelt message posted from Montreal on May 15 in her official Facebook page, Wini reflected on the intense preparations she undertook over the past two months after her successful campaign in Samoa earlier this year.

The national athlete said only two weeks of preparation separated her Samoa achievement from the latest championship in Canada, but she remained committed to training hard every day in pursuit of her goals.

“God answered our prayers in many ways.

“My strength and talent are from God and I always believe in whatever I do. I work hard every single day, no cheating to achieve my goals for these two months, April and May,” Wini said.

Wini acknowledged the many challenges she faced during her journey, saying there were moments when criticism and negative comments were directed at her, including attempts by some individuals to distract her preparation through social media messages.

However, the decorated weightlifter said she chose not to react to the negativity and instead remained focused on her mission to represent the country with pride.

“People call me names, and even inbox trying to distract my preparation, but I never react because I know these are trials to get me down,” she stated.

The athlete also used the opportunity to thank supporters who stood beside her throughout the campaign, especially those who continued encouraging her during difficult moments.

“So now I am able to say thanks to friends who inbox me and encouraged me to keep my head high. I appreciate you all,” she said.

Wini stressed that her victory was not only personal but belonged to the entire nation.

“This win is for the country, not myself, so if you are one true proud Solomon Islander you should be happy, not attacking me,” she added.

The Solomon Islands athlete further acknowledged the support of the National Sports Council (NSC), sponsors, families and friends who assisted her journey to Canada.

She paid special tribute to sponsor Michael Chan and others who contributed towards her preparations and participation at the championship.

Wini’s latest achievement continues to inspire many young athletes across the Solomon Islands, further cementing her reputation as one of the nation’s most accomplished sporting figures on the international stage.

Photo credit: Jenlyn Wini’s Fb page

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