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Trial of two Malaitan leaders set for tomorrow

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The trial of two Malaitan leaders is set to commence tomorrow, July 3.

Yesterday’s hearing was scheduled to set a new trial date, but the presiding Principal Magistrate refused defence’s request to vacate the trial, stating that court could only reschedule the date, not vacate it, as vacating a trial is only allowed for proper and valid reasons such as death and sickness.

The court then made directions for the trial to commence tomorrow and prosecution will call four witnesses.

The two defendants, Daniel Suidani and Celsus Talifilu, are jointly charged with two counts of unlawful assembly.

Both have pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The allegations stated the two accused were being taken into the custody for their alleged role in masterminding a number of unlawful assemblies and protest in Auki, Malaita Province in 2021.

Those unlawful assemblies and protects were alleged carried out by the Malaita for Democracy (M4D).

The two accused were then later arrested on October 3, 2024 and charged.

Mary-Anne Zurenuoc acts for crown and Lilly Ramo represent both defendants.

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50 Solomon Islanders receive Australian visas under new Pacific Engagement Visa scheme

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BY NED GAGAHE

Australia’s Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Pat Conroy, has confirmed that 50 Solomon Islanders have been granted visas under the first round of the new Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) scheme.

Speaking to local journalists during his two-day official visit to Honiara last week, Minister Conroy described the PEV as a “groundbreaking” initiative aimed at strengthening ties between Australia and Pacific nations.

“The Pacific Engagement Visa is a great way of bringing the peoples of the Pacific together, growing the Pacific diaspora in Australia and giving lifetime opportunities,” said Minister Conroy.

According to the Minister, the PEV program has generated significant interest across the region, with 50,000 applications received for the initial 3,000 visa places available.

From the Solomon Islands alone, 450 individuals have subscribed to the ballot, with 50 already receiving their visas and an additional 100 applicants currently undergoing processing.

Minister Conroy acknowledged early lessons from the scheme, including challenges faced by applicants in completing the required documentation for passport and security checks.

He also noted the need for more support in helping successful applicants meet the visa employment condition.

“We are hearing from the first experience that we need to work closely with the applicants around getting their paperwork in order. We’ve also heard the message to step up and do more about helping them secure employment opportunities in Australia,” he said.

Minister Conroy said to address these challenges, the Australian Government plans to increase support services in Pacific countries and conduct a review of the scheme to ensure adequate assistance is provided to applicants in future rounds.

“This is a long-term initiative. In any scheme, you learn from the first year in terms of operation. But the PEV is groundbreaking and I’m looking forward to meeting many Solomon Islanders who will take up this opportunity,” Minister Conroy concluded.

The PEV scheme, announced in 2023, is part of Australia’s broader commitment to strengthening partnerships and development across the Pacific region.

The Solomon Islands has been allocated 150 places annually under the PEV scheme.

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Chasing dreams beyond the classroom

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BY CHRIS ALEX

Every human being carries a dream – some begin to shape theirs during high school.

Whether it’s obtaining a higher qualification, securing a high-paying job, owning a vehicle, finding a life partner or achieving financial freedom before retirement, dreams fuel ambition.

According to Joe Lovi, owner of HJ Sewing Centre, the key issue lies in the country’s economic challenges.

“Our economy is not healthy. So having a side hustle is not just a choice, but a necessity for survival,” he said.

Lovi has taken this belief a step further by turning it into action.

Through the centre, he provides men and women with both theoretical and practical tailoring education.

Graduates receive certificates in tailoring and pattern cutting – skills they can immediately turn into income-generating activities.

The centre is already making an impact in and around Honiara and this week had over 20 students from areas like Taro, Choiseul Bay High School and Supizae Island.

“It’s challenging, but it’s how we can empower our people—by giving them knowledge that translates into income and eventually, a better future,” said Lovi.

In a country where formal employment opportunities are limited, initiatives like HJ Sewing Center offer hope and alternatives.

By equipping citizens with vocational skills, Lovi believes more Solomon Islanders can work toward their dreams—not just in theory, but in practice.

As the country continues to navigate economic hurdles, stories like this serve as a reminder.

Education doesn’t only happen in classrooms and success isn’t limited to corporate careers. Sometimes, a needle and thread can be just as powerful in stitching together a better tomorrow.

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MSG countries reinforce commitment to regional cooperation

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

Countries from the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) have reinforced their commitment to regional cooperation.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele pointed this out when he spoke about his recent trip to Suva, Fiji to the 23rd MSG Leaders’ Meeting.

Addressing local media representatives in a recent press conference, he said the theme of the meeting was “A Peaceful and Prosperous Melanesia.”

“We reinforced our commitment to regional cooperation on trade, labour mobility, climate action and security,” he said.

Manele expressed that at the meeting, Solomon Islands reaffirmed strong support for the MSG Secretariat and he welcomed Fiji’s generous allocation of land for our High Commission in Suva.

He added that this further strengthens our diplomatic presence and regional ties in line with the (Government for National Unity and Transformation) GNUT’s emphasis on unity and stability.

Moreover, Manele said prior to the meeting, there was the MSG Foreign Ministers’ Meeting that was held on June 20.

He stated that in this meeting, leaders agreed to review the MSG institutional framework and governance to ensure relevance to the changing global context.

“The MSG agreed to consider a dialogue partner mechanism inspired by ASEAN, (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) which would enable strategic engagement with external countries and organisations.

“Such a mechanism could strengthen diplomatic ties, foster regional cooperation and enhance MSG’s influence and resource mobilisation through structured partnerships and to finalise the MSG security strategy in October during Indonesia’s chairmanship,” he said.

Manele clarified that this chairmanship is of a police-related meeting and not of the MSG.

He said they also reaffirmed MSG’s support for New Caledonia’s decolonisation through multilateral processes and agreed to explore a Melanesia business travel card scheme with a technical working group to be established.

Manele noted that leaders at the meeting also endorsed the 2025 Melanesian Prime Minister’s Cup to be held in Port Moresby and the 2026 Melanesian Cultural Festival to be hosted by Fiji.

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Kudaiasi band raising funds for debut Australia tour

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BY CHRIS ALEX

Kudaiasi, a vibrant contemporary band from Lilisiana near Auki, Malaita is in Honiara to raise funds for their first-ever international tour in Australia.

Renowned for their distinctive fusion of modern rhythms with traditional Solomon Islands sounds, Kudaiasi enchants audiences with bamboo instruments and panpipes that reflect the cultural heartbeat of Malaita.

Their music, deeply rooted in island traditions, has steadily gained local acclaim for its originality and energy.

But Kudaiasi is more than just a musical group. Many of its members are also expert sea divers and fishermen, relying on the rich waters around Auki for their livelihoods. Now, the band is channeling both their passion and determination into realizing a long-held dream of taking their music beyond the shores of Solomon Islands.

To support this goal, Kudaiasi is offering musical services for hire during their stay in Honiara.

The band is available to perform for individuals, companies, hotels, business houses and organizations at affordable rates. This fundraising drive presents a special opportunity for supporters to enjoy the band’s captivating live performances while helping make their Australian journey a reality.

For bookings or further information, interested parties are encouraged to contact the band directly. By supporting Kudaiasi, Honiara residents not only enjoy an unforgettable musical experience but also contribute to the global reach of local talent.

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PRT truck burnt, police fires up inquiry

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BY CHRIS ALEX

A vehicle of the elite Police Response Team (PRT) caught fire yesterday on the road next to the national stadium, east Honiara.

Eyewitnesses told Island Sun that the vehicle was engulfed in flames as it moved along the road in westerly direction.

It is unclear if anyone inside the vehicle was injured.

In response, an official inquiry has been launched by police to investigate the circumstances leading to the fire, a statement by police yesterday said.

The inquiry will involve a detailed examination of the truck’s condition, its mechanical history and the ammunition on board at the time of the incident, the statement said.

The Police Response Department (PRD) also announced a review of its arms safety protocols and vehicle maintenance procedures. Personnel involved with the operation of the truck will be interviewed as part of the investigation.

“This comprehensive approach ensures all aspects of the incident are thoroughly examined and addressed. We are committed to accountability and to preventing similar incidents in the future,” a police spokesperson said.

The PRD has confirmed that the findings of the investigation will be made public to ensure transparency and maintain public trust in the police force.

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Defence seeks new trial date for Suidani and Talifilu

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

Defence is seeking court’s approval for a new trial date for the case of two Malaitan leaders, Daniel Suidani and Celsus Talifilu.

Suidani and Talifilu are being accused of masterminding unlawful assemblies and protest in Auki in 2021.

They are jointly charged with two counts of unlawful assembly.

Both have pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Friday, June 27, was the supposed date for the final interim-mention for the case, however, during the proceedings, defence raised an issue.

The counsel requested court to set a new trial date, citing that the principal defence counsel who represented both defendants is committed to another trial at the High Court.

Court adjourned for today, July 1, to allow the parties to confirm a new and suitable trial date.  The initial trial date will be vacated once a replacement date is confirmed.

The allegations stated the two accused were being taken into the custody for their alleged role in masterminding a number of unlawful assemblies and protest in Auki, Malaita Province in 2021.

Those unlawful assemblies and protest were alleged to have been carried out by the Malaita for Democracy (M4D) group.

The two accused were later arrested on October 3, 2024 and charged.

Mary-Anne Zurenuoc acts for crown and Lilly Ramo represents both defendants.

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Trial of police officer accused of bribery starts

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The trial of a police officer accused of bribery involving stolen gold ashes has begun on Monday morning, June 30 at the Magistrate’s Court.

Allen Noni was charged with two counts of bribery contrary to section 122 (a) of the Penal Code.

He pleaded not guilty and the trial was conducted before Principal Magistrate Emily Zazariko Vagibule Pakoa. 

The prosecution is calling three key witnesses for the trial, the complainant and two other officers who accompanied the complainant and saw the text message sent by the defendant.

This also goes for the witnesses who saw the alleged bribery take place on two separate dates, November 8 and 12, 2024.  

The Crown also tendered four statements and the record of interview of Noni.

In the opening statement, the prosecution alleged that on November 8 at 3.32 pm, Noni sent a text message to the complainant, stating that he wanted to meet in person.

They later met at around 7.30pm at the Town Ground area, Honiara where Noni allegedly gave $10,000 to the complainant.

On November 12, the defendant and the complainant met again at Henderson area, where Noni allegedly bribed the complainant with $20,000.

The total sum of $30,000 was allegedly given to the complainant by Noni to prevent the lead investigator from investigating Max Gura’s case.  

Jeremy Oiofa from the Office of Public Prosecution is prosecuting and Donation Houa from PSO act for Noni.

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Trial for teacher charged with rape begins today

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The trial of a teacher facing a rape charge is set to begin today at the High Court before Deputy Chief Justice, Rex Faukona.

The defendant who cannot be named to protect the identity of the alleged victim is charged with one count of rape and has pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The prosecution will call two witnesses.

The accused in this case is a 42-year-old man and the victim was 16 years old at the time the incident occurred.

Both are related as uncle and niece.

Police alleged that on August 25, 2023 at around 10pm the defendant was drunk and alone in his room and his wife was not at home because she was disappointment that the defendant was drinking.

The alleged victim was in her room in the same house when the defendant called her to bring him some water.

She got up, took a bottle of water then walked to her uncle’s bedroom and handed him the bottle of water. The defendant quickly grabbed her left hand, causing her to fall to the floor.

The accused then raped her.

The next morning the alleged victim packed her clothes and went to her aunt’s house.

On September 22, 2023 the matter was reported to the Sexual Assault Unit in Rove, where an investigation was carried out.

On November 7, 2023 the defendant was arrested and underwent a record of interview and was formally charged with rape.

Monica Rehomora from the Office of Public Prosecution is prosecuting and Bobby Harunari act for the defendant.

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ALIEN IN TOWN

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Solomon Islands’ foreign investment board makes public refute of SI Group Ltd’s legal status

BY IRWIN ANGIKI

The Solomon Islands Foreign Investment Division (FID) has publicly labelled the SI Group Limited as an ‘alien entity’.

FID in a public notice today says it has not approved the SI Group to do business in the country.

A statement by the Government Communications Unit (GCU) yesterday said in response to direct enquiries about the company, the FID says “the office of the Foreign Investment Division of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigrations wishes to advise the public that we do not have any approval issued to a foreign entity called SI Group Limited”.

The notice said that their presence in Solomon Islands carrying out commercial activity without foreign Investment approval or company incorporation violates the laws of this country, the GCU statement said.

“The individuals carrying out misrepresentation of this foreign entity are required to cease immediately,” the notice warned.

The so-called SI Group Limited controversially entered into an MOU with the Solomon Islands Government without cabinet approval, when the Minister of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI) was coerced to travel and sign an MOU with the group’s Executive in Vietnam recently.

Minister MCILI Jamie Vokia had signed a MOU with the SI Group Ltd on June 2 this year in Vietnam – in what has transpired as an authorised act.

The SEZ Bill was passed by Parliament on May 26, 2025. The following day, Vokia and his delegation left for Hanoi, Vietnam.

Prime Minister Manele has since disassociated his government from Vokia’s action and the SI Group Ltd.

At a press conference last week, PM Manele said that Vokia would face consequences for his action. It is not clear what the penalty is.

A senior government political appointee who was part of the trip to Vietnam was last week replaced. A second government officer who was also part of the Hanoi trip has also resigned.

Opposition Leader Matthew Wale had raised a media complaint earlier, urging PM Manele to deal with this fiasco caused by his minister, Vokia.

Mr Wale described the incident as a reckless act of rogue diplomacy that by-passed Cabinet authority and exposed serious weaknesses in government discipline and accountability.

Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) spotlighted this issue in the media on June 4, when it raised concerns on Vokia’s signage of the MOU with the SI Group on June 2, just days after the unpopular SEZ Bill was passed in parliament.

“The ink on the SEZ Act has barely dried and Cabinet or Caucus have not signed this but Hon Vokia (minister) has already signed such an exclusive MOU, with a Chemical company,” TSI statement June 4 said.

TSI reported that the MOU Vokia had signed with the SI Group said that the company will be the Strategic Adviser and priority investor on major investment opportunities within the zone and its role will include:

•           Advising on SEZ development strategy, structure, and international best practice

•           Promoting SEZ to global investors and multilateral institutions

•           Facilitating capital mobilization and technical partnerships,

•           Supporting legal, financial, and regulatory alignment to attract long-term investment.

TSI posed the questions – What due diligent check has the Executive Government done to arrive at the conclusion that SI Group have got the resources and what it takes to successfully achieve these.  How much will the taxpayers of Solomon Islands will have to pay for the engagement of SI Group. 

Government has not responded to TSI’s questions.

SI Group, first established in 2001 as ESPECO (HK) Limited, is headquartered in Vietnam, according to TSI.

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