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Ground breaking of Auki sealing project next week

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The ground breaking of the PRC funded Auki Road Sealing project in Malaita province is scheduled for 5th March, in Auki.

Premier Elijah Asilaua confirmed this yesterday, as his government looks forward to receive delegation from PRC and SIG to this milestone event.

“Ground breaking for the Auki Road sealing project was scheduled for Wednesday next week.

“The event will be a significant landmark for the progress of the project, as implementation expects to follow suit,” he said.

Asilaua said this is what witnessed with the Japanese funded project at Kilu’ufi hospital and MPG expect the same for this project.

The premier also mentioned that mobilization of machineries and materials for the project has begun late last year and will continue.

“We expect after the event, the contractor will continue to mobilize materials and machineries to Auki for the implementation of the project,” he said.

Meanwhile, Asilaua said the set-up of campsite for the project near Aligegeo school is close to completion.

He mentioned the camp will host materials, machineries even employees who will be working on the project.

Asilaua assured support of his government to PRC and national government to implement this important economic project.

He added that his government also accorded similar support to other development partners that implementing projects in the province.

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Climate change and overfishing; 2 major challenges in ensuring sustainability for fisheries

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By Loretta B Manele

Climate change and overfishing have been highlighted as significant challenges in ensuring sustainability for Pacific Islands fisheries.

Baron Divavesi Waqa, former Nauruan President and the current Secretary General for the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) spoke about this at the Honiara Summit- “Umi tugeda delivering on SDG 14.4: Achieving Sustainable Fisheries.”

He expressed that despite what the Pacific region has achieved in terms of sustainable fisheries, there are still significant challenges to address.

Waqa listed climate change and overfishing as two challenges when it comes to sustainable fisheries.

He voiced that climate change is altering the distribution and migratory patterns of tuna stocks, threatening the economic stability of Small Islands Developing States (SIDS).

As for “overfishing”, Waqa said this is driven by IUU (Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated) fishing operators which continue to pose serious threats to the sustainability of our marine ecosystems.

Waqa said addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders.

He stated that the scourge of IUU fishing on the marine ecosystem, our economies and the livelihoods of our coastal communities must be curtailed.

Waqa mentioned that studies show that USD35.4 billion was provided as subsidies to private fishing enterprises for capacity-enhancing.

“We have a golden opportunity to address and curb harmful fisheries subsidies by supporting the work of the World Trade Organisation.

“I echo the call by our leaders by encouraging all WTO Forum Members to work together to conclude the remaining pillars of the fisheries subsidies negotiations of overcapacity and overfishing.”

He urged all forum members, distant water fishing nations, international and regional institutions to reaffirm their commitment to regional cooperation and sustainable fisheries management within the Pacific region.

“Together, we can overcome the challenges we face and build a prosperous blue Pacific for all Pacific Islanders. Let us work hand in hand to ensure that our fisheries remain a source of sustenance and prosperity for generations to come.”

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Asilaua; The 28 days strike notice is before us

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Premier of Malaita province, Elijah Asilaua.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Premier of Malaita province, Elijah Asilaua says the 28 days notice issued by Workers Union of Solomon Islands (WUSI), on behalf of direct employees of Malaita province is before his executive.

Asilaua made the statement, assuring MPG staffs that they will be looking at the matter during their executive meeting next week.

The notice was issued in response to outstanding arrears of MPG staffs included; 3.5 unified percent and 9 percent salary increase that hasn’t paid since 2017.

The percentages were passed and adopted by Ramohia’s government. Sadly, the successive government under the leadership of former Premier, Daniel Suidani and PS, Fridrick Fa’abasu had dropped it.

The matter remained unresolved until now, that staffs through WUSI decided to bring to the attention of the current government and administration, according to MPG staffs.

In pursue of the matter, Premier Asilaua mentioned that his office has recently met with leaders at the province, who led provincial staffs on the matter.

“My office had already called their leaders and assured them on the commitment of my government to prioritize the matter,” he said.

The premier, however, expressed dissatisfaction with MPG staffs on the approach the matter was handled.

“It might be their right to take the matter to Workers Union Solomon Islands (WUSI), but the approach taken was not in the best interest of my government.

“My government just 9 months old and to my surprise, my office didn’t notify on the matter.

“I expect them to come to my office and discuss the matter with us. Regrettably, it brought to media before reaching us

“The staffs should trust their government. This is the government that represent them and the people of Malaita,” he said.

Asilaua said the good news is the matter is before them and they will deal with it accordingly. 

“My government won’t overlook the value of its staffs. They are the drivers of the policy, programs and activities of the province.

“And as responsible government, we highly consider the importance of the matter.

“I can assure that my executive will be looking at the matter during our executive meeting next week.

“And any outcome, I will call the staffs to try and address it, since it is only an internal matter,” he said.

He also appealed to MPG staffs to refrain from any illegal activity that might go out of hand, and put them in jeopardy.

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‘LANDOWNERS WANT ANSWERS’

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Wale probes Mines Minister over cancellation of Koloula prospecting licence

THE Leader of Opposition Matthew Wale has called on the Minister for Mines and Energy to explain the basis of his decision to revoke a letter of intent issued to the Koloula mineral-prospecting tenement.

Landowners have raised their concern to the Opposition office that they had been hard done by Mines Minister Bradley Tovosia, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister, a media statement from the Opposition Office yesterday said.

Landowners said they had successfully signed a Surface Access Agreement (SAA) only to find out later that it was revoked by the Minister.

The landowners informed the Opposition Office that there were no reasons given thus stifling the planned prospecting and potential benefits it holds for landowners.

“The revocation came two months after the SAA was signed. In that time and in good faith, the landowners and the investor had progressed their activities on the expectation that a Prospecting License (PL) was going to be issued.  It is therefore troubling that just out of the blue, the Minister changed his mind.  The landowners are distraught and want answers,” Wale said.

The Opposition Leader said the issue has also raised legal concerns, the statement added.

He said Section 6 and 12 of the Mines and Minerals Act does not vest any power on the Minister to unilaterally issue or revoke letters of intent or PL.

Wale said the Minister could only issue letters or licenses on the advice of the Board.

“Information at hand suggests that all requirements had been complied with by the landowners and the investor, hence they are entitled to be issued the PL.  After two months of waiting, it was revoked with no reasons whatsoever,” he said.

The Opposition Office understands this is not the first time the Minister has come under fire for such questionable decisions and it is truly mind-boggling that nothing has been done about it.

“The Minister’s action has exposed the Government to claims for specific performance and damages,” Wale said.

The Opposition Leader said if the Prime Minister is serious about addressing corruption at the highest level of Government, he must not turn a blind eye on such matter.

He said the landowners and public are entitled to see due process being applied, the statement said.

Healthy tuna stocks reflect leaders’ commitment

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The status of tuna stocks and the successful management of the four key species in the Pacific highlight the commitment and vision of regional leaders.

Reflecting on reports from the Western & Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) Director-General Noan Pakop emphasized the importance of managing skipjack, yellowfin, bigeye, and albacore tuna.

He attributed this positive outcome to the establishment of regional and sub-regional agencies that play complementary roles in supporting fisheries management across the Pacific.

“Fisheries are crucial to the food security and economies of Pacific Island countries, providing between 50% and 90% of the dietary protein for coastal communities. Tuna consumption in the region is also two to five times the global average,” Pakop stated.

He added that the Pacific is making progress toward Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14.4, which aims to regulate harvesting and end overfishing.

However, he noted that while the Pacific’s vast ocean territory—spanning over 30 million square kilometers—offers significant economic benefits, it also presents challenges in monitoring and combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

“Through the FFA, we consolidate our positions on key management measures and work collectively within the WCPFC. As a bloc, we have helped design and implement several conservation measures that have contributed to the sustainability of our tuna stocks,” he said.

Pakop also acknowledged the crucial role of the Pacific Community (SPC) in providing scientific advice to both the WCPFC and FFA. He noted that through ministerial and official forums, regional stakeholders continue to discuss and implement effective fisheries management strategies.

“The SPC’s contributions, the role of the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA) in managing tuna stocks through the Vessel Day Scheme (VDS), and the Pacific Islands Forum’s strategic vision have all played an essential role in ensuring sustainable fisheries.
At the FFA, our leaders’ key values and principles, as highlighted at the NICE Leaders’ Meeting, have been incorporated into our strategic and business plans to guide our work in serving member states,” he concluded.

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Trial for Suidani and Talifilu confirmed for April 28

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The trial for two Malaitan provincial leaders, Mr. Daniel Suidani and Celsus Talifilu, was confirmed in court yesterday to commence from April 28 to May 9, 2025.

Defense counsel Ramo Niuga, appearing in court on behalf of his senior colleague Mrs. Lilly Ramo, informed the court that the defense had no objections to the trial date, which was previously set at an earlier hearing.

Both Suidani and Talifilu were present in court, and their bail was extended.

The case has been adjourned to March 27, 2025, for an interim mention, during which both defendants are excused. However, they are required to appear in court for the final interim mention on April 24, 2025.

Suidani and Talifilu are jointly charged with two counts of unlawful assembly and have both pleaded not guilty to the charges.

According to the allegations, the two accused were taken into custody for their alleged role in orchestrating a series of unlawful assemblies and protests in Auki, Malaita Province, in 2021.

These assemblies and protests were allegedly carried out by the Malaita for Democracy (M4D) movement.

Suidani and Talifilu were later arrested on October 3, 2024, and subsequently charged.

Mary-Anne Zurenuoc is representing the Crown, while Lilly Ramo is defending both accused.

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Niue urges enhanced coordination

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Niue Prime Minister Dalton Tagelagi has called for enhanced coordination among multilateral organizations, regional fishery bodies, and governments to ensure sustainability commitments are effectively translated into action.

He made this statement during his opening remarks at yesterday’s Panel 1, Session 7, which focused on supporting fisheries sustainability through the implementation of international instruments.

Tagelagi emphasized the need to strengthen monitoring, control, and surveillance mechanisms to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and ensure that financial and technical assistance reaches the nations that need it most.

“Aligning economic incentives with conservation goals, particularly through reform, promotes a fair and equitable approach to marine resource management that acknowledges the unique vulnerability of seabeds. Transformative opportunities for sustainable fisheries must be embraced.”

Tagelagi highlighted that international agreements, such as the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, present critical opportunities to curb practices that undermine sustainability.

He stressed that Niue strongly supports efforts to eliminate harmful subsidies that contribute to overfishing while ensuring that any reforms consider the specific needs of developing coastal nations.

Tagelagi also noted that Niue is currently exploring the possibility of joining the BB&J Agreement, recognizing its significance in protecting the region’s marine resources.

“We believe its implementation must be inclusive and acknowledge the rights and responsibilities of all ocean states, regardless of size. Regional and national-level action must be backed by adequate resources, knowledge sharing, and governance mechanisms that uphold equity and sustainability.”

He acknowledged the challenges Niue faces in strengthening national frameworks and building capacity, as it works to translate international commitments into national legislation and management plans.

Tagelagi called for stronger partnerships that provide meaningful technical assistance, capacity building, and sustainable financing mechanisms.

“Our priority must be developing resilient, adaptive frameworks that ensure fisheries remain viable for future generations. This includes adopting science-based policies, investing in local expertise, and empowering communities to take ownership of conservation efforts.

“The future of our fisheries and marine biodiversity depends on the decisions we make today. We have the frameworks, the knowledge, and the tools to safeguard our ocean for future generations.”

Tagelagi reaffirmed Niue’s commitment to collaborating with Pacific partners, regional bodies, and the global community to advance the sustainable management of ocean resources.

“We urge all nations to ensure that the implementation of international instruments remains equitable, inclusive, and responsive to the unique needs of all stakeholders, particularly small island developing states.”

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Premier Asilaua to lead delegation to Jiangsu, China

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Premier of Malaita province, Elijah Asilaua.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Premier of Malaita province Elijah Asilaua says a delegation representing Malaita provincial government and national government will pay a visit to Jiangsu province in China this year.

The visit is purposely to reinforce and fostering the newly established sister relationship between Malaita province and Jiangsu provinces.

Asilaua revealed this in a recent interview, as his executive government is preparing for this significant visit to Jiangsu province.

“We will continue to build relation with Jiangsu province under the sister relationship.

“In strengthen the relationship, this year I will lead a delegation to Jiangsu province in China.

“The trip is to strengthen negotiating areas we want to achieve under the relationship,” he said.

He added since the provinces forged relationship; they continue to strengthen dialogue on mutual areas of benefit under the partnership.

Asilaua emphasised this as both are working to translate agreements under the MOU, for the benefit people from both provinces, especially Malaita province.

He also mentioned that so far, Malaita province had received assistances range from IT equipment to livelihood projects from Jiangsu province.

Asilaua noted the assistances came under the partnership and Malaita provincial government and its people had received junk of the support.

He said his government is looking forward for the visit, while they anticipate fruitful dialogue with Jiangsu on their sister relationship.

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High court struck out election petition against Namson

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The High Court has struck out the election petition case against Member of Parliament for West Honiara Constituency Namson Tran.

The ruling was delivered yesterday at High Court by Chief Justice Sir. Albert Palmer.

Court orders the application for strike out is granted, with costs to be taxed if not agreed.

The petitioner Wilson Mamae ordered to pay the respondent Namson Tran costs of and incidental to the petition, including this application, with certification for King’s Counsel.

The sum of $40,000, deposited by the Petitioner as security for costs, is to be released to the Respondent’s solicitors and credited against any cost’s payable under paragraph (2) above.

A Certificate of this Court’s Order confirming the dismissal of the Petition and affirming that the Respondent is the duty elected Member of Parliament for the West Honiara Constituency shall be issued to: The Electoral Commission, the Governor -General of Solomon Islands, and the Speaker of Parliament.

In delivering the ruling, CJ Palmer ruled the application to strike out the amended election petition in its entirely is granted and dismissed on the basis that, the allegations of the bribery fail to disclose sufficient grounds to warrant a hearing, are frivolous or vexatious, and do not establish a reasonable cause of action. Therefore, the petition is strike out with costs to be taxed if not agreed.

The petitioner Wilson Mamae filed six grounds of bribery allegations against the respondent Hon. Namson Tran contrary to section 126 of the Electoral Act.

The petitioner alleged that respondent and his agents distribute funds in form of monies to the voters, with the intention to influence and hold the people therein to vote for the respondent and to refrain from voting another candidate at the 2024 National General Election.

The respondent and his lawyer in respond filed an application to strike out the petition on the basis that; the six allegations of bribery filed by the petitioner and his lawyer fails to disclose sufficient grounds to justify a hearing and the petition is frivolous or vexatious, and lacks a reasonable cause of action, and should therefore be dismissed or strike out.

John Sullivan KC and Patrick Raerora of Sol- Law Lawyers represent the Respondent Namson Tran and Mark Adam Sina of Honiara Attorney Firm represent Petitioner Wilson Mamae and Edward Waiwaki from Attorney General Chamber (Amicus Curiae).

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Office of Public Prosecution lacks funds to run trials

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) in Honiara has been unable to finance trials since last week and this week due to a lack of funds.

Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr. Andrew Kelesi, told the Island Sun that their office simply does not have the money to proceed with trials. He stated that they are still waiting for the Ministry of Finance to process payments, as the issue is related to cash flow constraints.

As a result, the prosecution office does not have sufficient funds from the central budget to cover all outstanding payments, while new payment requests are still pending approval.

Kelesi added that two trials scheduled for last week were vacated because there was no money to cover witness travel expenses from the provinces, including airfare, accommodation in Honiara, and daily allowances.

Similarly, for the current circuit in Gizo this week, the ODPP lacks the funds to bring in witnesses from Western Province and Choiseul Province. However, Kelesi noted that they were fortunate that, in one trial, both the accused and witnesses were already in Gizo.

He also highlighted concerns about upcoming circuits in Lata, Kirakira (High Court), and the Central Islands (Magistrates’ Court) next month, which will depend entirely on fund availability. If the ODPP does not receive funds this week or next week, these trials will be affected.

Without the necessary funds, witnesses from the provinces or even from Honiara cannot attend court hearings, as the office cannot cover travel expenses, accommodation, or daily allowances.

“Trials depend entirely on the availability of funds—no money, no court,” Kelesi said.

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