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Auki public transport providers raise fares 

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

Vehicle and outboard motor owners who run transport services in Auki, Malaita Province, have raised their passenger fares.

The increase is $5 to $10 on top of their normal passenger fares, due to the rise in petrol and diesel prices in Auki and rural fuel depots. 

In an interview with John Gilo, owner of Let Transport, he said the increase in their passenger fares was due to the current fuel prices.

He said they have imposed an additional $5 and $10 on the normal fares to cover their fuel and engine costs. He added that even the prices of engine spare parts are also rising. 

“The increase in passenger fares, which we have enforced on our normal fares, is to cover the fuel we use, since the price of fuel is increasing.

“Additionally, raising our fares will help safeguard our engines in case they become bankrupt or need servicing,” he said.

He mentioned that they charge an additional $5 and $10 depending on the destinations.

“We charge fares according to the distance of the destination we will take. This also applies to hiring,” he said. 

One of the public transport services running along South Road has also been witnessed charging $40 for destinations where the normal fare was $30. 

When asked why they charged an additional $10, the vehicle owner said it was because of the rise in fuel prices. 

“Since we have known that our fuel prices are skyrocketing because of the current war in the Middle East, our fares will also be getting higher,” he said.

Meanwhile, this paper also spoke to passengers.

“We can’t say anything for now because we have already heard about it and know the rising fuel prices. The only thing is that the transport owners have charged reasonable fares, so it is fair to us all,” he said. 

It is understood that fuel prices in the rural areas of Malaita Province are now reaching $100 to $150 or $200 per gallon for far destinations from Auki.

The current fuel prices in Auki is still ranging from $12.40 to $15.60 per litre of petrol and diesel.

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IDA progressing well in Western Province

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

INITIAL Damage Assessment (IDA) following Tropical Cyclone Maila is progressing well across Western Province, authorities have confirmed.

Teams were deployed to affected communities last week to conduct on-the-ground assessments, marking a key step in the province’s disaster response efforts.

Chairperson of the Western Province Disaster Committee, Collin Potakana, said several assessment teams have already completed their work, with reports now submitted to the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (PEOC).

He explained that the IDA process forms part of the National Disaster Response Plan and is designed to identify damage to homes, infrastructure, and other essential services impacted by the cyclone.

“In fact, this assessment should be done soon after the cyclone, but due to weather conditions and logistical challenges it has been delayed,” Potakana said.

He urges community leaders in affected areas to cooperate fully with assessment teams by providing accurate and relevant information to support the exercise.

Potakana emphasised that the IDA is a critical foundation for the next phase of recovery.

“This assessment is very important as it will help formulate the recovery plan. Recovery is the next phase and it will be a huge task. We cannot implement recovery if we do not have a proper plan,” he said.

Potakana also acknowledged the support of the National Emergency Response Team, which is currently assisting the PEOC with coordination and logistical operations on the ground.

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Man pleads not guilty to domestic violence

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

A man has pleaded not guilty to domestic violence (DV) at the Honiara Central Magistrate Court.

The accused who cannot be named to protect the identity of the victim was initially charged with one count of domestic violence and physical abuse, and two counts of unlawful wounding. These two cases are consolidated.

The victim in this case is the wife of the accused person.

The unlawful wounding charges were withdrawn by the prosecution yesterday on the basis of absence of medical report to substantiate the charge.

The court granted the withdrawal of the unlawful wounding charges which resulted in the accused being acquitted of that charge.

As to the remaining count of DV and physical abuse, it was alleged that the accused on December 24, 2025, physically abused his wife by kicking her head.

The offence of DV attracts a penalty fine of $30,000 or 3-years imprisonment or both a fine and imprisonment.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge of domestic violence when he was arraigned in court yesterday.

Defence told court that given the accused pleaded not guilty, she wished to have the matter adjourned for Wednesday for her to make a bail application for the defendant.

Principal Magistrate Ben Alasia granted an adjournment for Wednesday next week to hear Defence bail application, and directs that Defence prepares the bail application papers prior proposed mention date.

The main case was adjourned to May 20 for oral PTC preparation.

In the meantime, a remand of warrant was extended for the defendant.

Jeremy Oifa appeared on instructions from Mr Steward Beto, and he represents the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Sylvia Pitamama of the Public Solicitors’ Office, represents the accused.

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Attempted murder case postponed for man of ‘unsound mind’

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Magistrate Court yesterday granted a postponement to the case against a man accused of attempted murder after it found that the accused was of ‘unsound mind’ and is ‘incapable’ of making his defence.

The accused is charged with attempted murder contrary section 215(a) of the Penal Code.

The offence attracts a penalty fine of life imprisonment maximum.

Attempted murder is only triable in the High Court. However, Section 144 (1) of the Criminal Procedure code gives powers upon Magistrates court to deal with these inquiries in the course of preliminary investigations.

Section 144 (2) of the CPC requires that if the court has the opinion that the accused is of unsound mind that he is not capable of making his defence, the court shall postpone further proceedings in the case.

Principal Magistrate Ben Alasia did convene to make an inquiry based on an application made by Prosecuting counsel Mr Steward Tonowane.

The Principal Magistrate did consider the forensic report prepared by Dr Paul Orotaloa, the medical report prepared by William Cain, the Psychiatric Nurse at Rove Central Correctional Centre, the conference report prepared by prosecutions and the courts record of the accused mental state.

In delivering his ruling yesterday, Alasia said:

“I have considered all the evidence before me and found that the accused is of unsound mind thus, he is not capable to make his defence.”

“I direct that this matter be forwarded to the Governor General for his consideration and compliance.”

The copy of the court’s finding will be forwarded to the Governor General (GG) by the DPP for his consideration wherein, based on the GG’s discretion, will then direct that the accused be detained in a mental hospital.

In the meantime, remand of warrant is extended for the accused to May 19, 2026.

This case illustrates the challenges of balancing criminal liability with mental health considerations within our criminal justice system.

It was alleged that Smith Pitisopa of Panarui village, South Choiseul, Choiseul Province at Panarui, Choiseul Province on August 12, 2025, armed with a knife, struck Mr Max Vaqalo on both hands and belly. The strikes on the belly produced a big wound which resulted in the victim’s intestine coming out accompanied with heavy bleeding.

Steward Tonowane from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is prosecuting the matter while Oxley Limeniala represents the accused.

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Good behaviour bond for 18-yo convicted of assault

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Magistrate Court yesterday convicted a young man accused of assaulting an elderly person.

Walter Kaeroe, 18, from Luaniua, Malaita Outer Islands in the Malaita Province was charged with one count of common assault contrary to section 244 of the penal code.

The offence of common assault attracts a maximum penalty of one year imprisonment.

Mr Kaeroe pleaded guilty when arraigned.

The complainant in this matter is Zephaniah Halau, a 70-year-old male person from Kehiri village, Luaniua.

Both the complainant and the defendant reside at Luaniua.

Principal Magistrate Ben Alasia presided over the matter when it came for sentence judgment yesterday.

The Principal Magistrate imposed a good behaviour bound over order upon the offender, directing that he must strive to keep the peace and be of good behaviour for 12 months in the sum of $500.

The defendant was told in court that within the 12 months period he must not reoffend or get caught up with the law or else he will subsequently serve that 12-month period at the Rove Correctional Centre.

In delivering his sentencing judgment, Alasia reminded the defendant that the victim he attacked was an elderly vulnerable person. The victim sustained injuries with swollen face and nose and mouth bleeding.

The court took into account the fact that the offence was committed at night time which increased the victim’s vulnerability and reduced his ability to seek help.

It also took into account his personal circumstances in light of the seriousness of the offending.

In particular the Principal Magistrate took into account the defendant’s early guilty plea, which saved the court’s time and police resources from a full trial.

It also took into account the fact that the defendant was apologetic for his offending as demonstrated by pleading guilty to the offence at the first opportunity.

On November 16, 2025 at Luaniau Village, between 8-9pm, the complainant left his house and walked to their Chiefs house and later went to his in-laws  house.

On his way, the defendant came and punched him on his face and escaped.

The complainant, as a result of the punch fell onto the ground and sustained a swollen face and bleeding from his nose and mouth.

The offence was committed in response to the complainant’s conduct, namely engaged in a ‘peeping-tom behaviour’ and performing sexual acts in the presence of the defendant’s late grandmother.

The matter was reported to the police officers of the National Crime Investigation Department (NCID) when they went over to Luaniau, which resulted in the arrest and charge of the defendant.

Constable Florence Hiroschachi from the Police Prosecutions Department (PPD), prosecuted the case, and Vincent Nomae from the Public Solicitor’s Office represented the offender.

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Police steps up security for today’s parliament sitting

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) has confirmed it is fully prepared to ensure safety and security during today’s Parliament meeting.

Police Commissioner Ian Vaeveso made the confirmation during the Prime Minister’s press conference yesterday at the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC).

Commissioner Vaeveso said officers will be deployed across the city and other parts of the country as part of a comprehensive security plan to maintain law and order.

He assured the public, including businesses and schools, that activities should proceed as normal.

He said the operation follows thorough risk assessments, with around 1000 trained officers and dedicated tactical teams on standby to respond to any disturbances.

“Police are also working closely with community leaders to promote cooperation and encourage respect for the democratic process,” he said.

Mr Vaeveso further adds that a traffic management plan will be in place in Honiara to ease movement and ensure public safety.

“This includes designated control points and deployment of officers at key intersections. The public is urged to cooperate and plan their travel to avoid congestion,” he said.

He said RSIPF reiterates its commitment to maintaining peace and stability during the Parliament session today and calls on all citizens to work together to ensure a smooth and peaceful process.

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Gov’t complied with Court of Appeal order: PM Manele

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele said that his government has fully complied with the recent Court of Appeal ruling and that the matter has now been handed over to Parliament for further action.

Speaking during his press conference yesterday, PM Manele said the purpose of yesterday’s conference was to formally update citizens on government compliance with the Court’s decision, outline the transition of the process to the National Parliament, and provide reassurance to schools, businesses, and the wider public.

“I confirm that all legal requirements and orders relating to the convening of Parliament have been fully complied with. Having discharged these responsibilities, the matter now rests with the Speaker and the National Parliament,” he said.

He said that his government’s committed to upholding the rule of law and respecting the independence of the judiciary.

PM Manele told the media that the executive has now completed its role in the process.

He said that he acknowledged that differing views were expected during such a politically sensitive period, but urged citizens not to allow disagreements to divide the nation.

“Such differences are part of any healthy democracy and must not divide us,” he said.

He also calls on social media users and the public to exercise restraint against the spread of misinformation; urging respect for parliamentary processes.

He also raised concern over the impact of political uncertainty on families, schools, and businesses.

“I apologise to citizens who may feel unsettled, noting that past experiences of political instability have caused anxiety in communities. It is never our intention for the democratic process to cause you stress or to make you fear for your safety,” he said.

He encouraged schools and businesses to continue operating normally today.

“Stability and continuity are important for children’s education and the country’s economic life. This is a normal part of a maturing democracy. I call on our schools and businesses to remain open,” he said.

The PM thanks Solomon Islanders for maintaining stability, praising the resilience of business houses, the support of churches, and the quiet persistence of rural communities.

“Our priority is to ensure you can go about your lives safely. You are the heartbeat of the happy isles,” he said.

Photo: Supplied

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MONC TODAY

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PM Manele says he is ready to resign, but prefers debate to proceed

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says while he is ready to resign, he is prepared for today’s Motion of No Confidence.

He made the statement in response to questions from journalists during a press conference held yesterday at the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) in Honiara.

The purpose of the Parliament sitting on today, is to consider and debate a Motion of No Confidence against the Prime Minister.

Responding to a question on whether he would resign immediately if asked on the floor of Parliament or allow the debate to proceed before voting.

In his response Prime Minister Manele said that he preferred the motion to be debated.

“I would like the debate to proceed. If the numbers are not on my side, I will resign after I have presented my statement,” he said.

The Prime Minister said that motions of no confidence are a normal part of the democratic process.

“It is a check and balance on the executive,” he said.

He said that this is the third Motion of No Confidence moved against him since assuming office.

“Every Member of Parliament has the right to move a motion of no confidence. This is the third one. I am prepared for it,” he said.

Prime Minister Manele added that it is up to the mover of the motion and the Speaker of Parliament to determine how the process will proceed.

“The Speaker can make any ruling, but my preference is for the motion to be debated. I will provide my statement, and if I see that I do not have the numbers on my side, I will resign,” he said.

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SEMIFINAL HUNT

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Solomon Kings begins bid for place in OFC Pro-League 2026 when they face Tahiti United

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

In Hamilton, NZ

SOLOMON Kings FC will begin their bid for a semifinal place in the OFC Pro-League 2026 when they face Tahiti United FC at Go Media Stadium tomorrow at 4pm.

Both teams open their Challengers Group campaign in what shapes as a must-win encounter, with hopes of progressing to the knockout stage hanging in the balance.

Kings head coach Ben Cahn described the campaign as a valuable learning experience, despite falling short of a top-four finish in the regular standings.

“It’s been a really good experience,” Cahn said during a pre-match press conference in Auckland.

“We’re obviously disappointed not to reach the top four, but the competition format has given us another opportunity.”

Under the revised structure, the Challengers Group offers teams a second pathway into the semifinals—something Cahn believes his side is determined to seize.

“Luckily, the format allows us to come here and have a proper crack and see if we can push into the semi-finals,” he said.

Reflecting on their journey so far, Cahn highlighted both progress and areas needing improvement.

“We’ve played some really good football, and the players have developed a lot. But we know we’re still short in a couple of areas,” he added.

The Kings’ campaign has been marked by inconsistency, something the coach attributes partly to a challenging start to the season.

“It was explained to me to treat 2026 almost like a pre-season because there was quite a bit of chaos getting things up and running,” Cahn said. “It’s been up and down in terms of results and performances.

“We’ve learned a lot—on and off the pitch. There have been plenty of highs and lows, some within our control and some not.”

Now, the equation is simple for the Solomon Islands side: win all three matches in the Challengers Group to keep their semifinal hopes alive.

The group winner will face the fourth-placed team from the Leaders Group for a place in the final four.

Also competing in the Challengers Group are Vanuatu United FC and Hekari FC, setting up a tightly contested race for progression.

With no margin for error, the Kings’ clash against Tahiti United could prove decisive in shaping their tournament fate.

Photo credit: OFC Pro League

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Wini’s Commonwealth Games push boosted after Samoa success

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

National weightlifter Jenly Wini has strengthened her chances of qualifying for the 2026 Commonwealth Games following a standout performance at the recent Oceania championships in Samoa.

Wini’s achievement was formally recognised by the National Sports Council (NSC) during a presentation held at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport in Honiara this week.

The experienced lifter claimed gold at the Oceania Senior Championships, a key qualifying event for the Commonwealth Games, and also secured a bronze medal at the Universal Cup.

The Oceania event is part of the official pathway towards Games selection, bringing together the region’s top lifters to compete for qualification spots. Wini’s gold medal finish has placed her in a favourable position as she continues her campaign.

Solomon Islands Weightlifting Federation (SIWF) President Albert Oso acknowledged the recognition by NSC, saying it plays an important role in athlete motivation.

“I want to thank NSC for making this opportunity to reward the hard work of our athletes. Recognition like this boosts their confidence and motivates them to perform at their best, knowing their efforts do not go unnoticed,” Oso said.

He added that focus now shifts to the final qualifying event in Canada, where Wini will look to further improve her standing ahead of team selection.

Wini, one of the country’s most experienced lifters, said the Samoa competition was a significant milestone in her journey.

“This was a very important competition for me, and adding a bronze is also a big achievement for me. It shows that age does not matter, you just have to work hard and stay committed,” she said.

Head coach Wendy Hale was also acknowledged for her role in guiding the team during the campaign, as well as her ongoing work in developing young lifters at SINIS.

The recognition ceremony also highlighted the continued partnership between NSC and SIWF in supporting athletes on their pathway to international competition.

With one qualifying opportunity remaining, all eyes are now on the Canada event as Solomon Islands weightlifters continue their bid to secure places at the 2026 Games.

Wini is among Solomon Islands’ top-performing weightlifters and has consistently represented the country at regional and international competitions. The Oceania Senior Championships serve as a crucial stepping stone for Pacific athletes aiming to qualify for major events such as the Commonwealth Games, making her recent gold medal performance a significant boost to her campaign.

Photo credit: National Sports Council of Solomon Islands (NSC)

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