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Australian High Commissioner meets Guadalcanal Premier

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Jeff Roach, paid a courtesy visit to Premier of Guadalcanal Province, Mr. Willie Atu, on Monday.

During the meeting, Mr. Roach reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to support Guadalcanal Province.

Premier Atu welcomed the visit and raised key challenges facing the province, a statement from the Guadalcanal provincial Government (GPG) yesterday said.

He highlighted rapid population growth and the expansion of squatter settlements around Honiara as pressing issues for urban planning and service delivery.

Both leaders also discussed the Gold Ridge mining project, recognising its importance for the province’s economic future, the statement said.

Premier Atu emphasised the need for responsible development that balances economic gains with environmental and social safeguards.

The meeting concluded positively, with both parties pledging stronger cooperation in disaster response, sustainable development, and community wellbeing.

Photo credit: GPG

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Mothers’ Union in Diocese of Guadalcanal opens 5th conference

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The Mothers’ Union (MU) in the Diocese of Guadalcanal officially opened its 5th Conference on Monday, April 27, 2026, with a colorful parade from Tina Road to Good Shepherd in North East Guadalcanal.

The event also marked the 150th Anniversary of the Mothers’ Union worldwide.

Sixty participants, including parish leaders and representatives from all twenty parishes, gathered for the four-day meeting, a statement from the Anglican Church of Melanesian (AcoM) yesterday said.

Reverend Dr. Atkin Zaku, Rector of Good Shepherd, welcomed members and reminded them of their vital role in families, communities, and the nation.

Bishop Benedict Loe, patron of the Mothers Union in Guadalcanal, highlighted the global milestone and urged members to embrace unity, reconciliation, and service.

He emphasised the union’s mission as guardians of faith and family, champions of women’s leadership, and advocates for justice.

Mr. Loe also reminded members of the union of five core objectives; supporting Christian marriage, raising children in faith, fostering worldwide fellowship, promoting stable family life, and assisting families in adversity.

This opening ceremony was attended by Dr. Paul Bosawai, Member of Parliament for North East Guadalcanal, diocesan staff, and local chiefs, underscoring the union’s importance to both church and community.

The conference will conclude on Thursday with the election of a new diocesan executive to guide the union’s future work.

Photo credit: AcoM

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Suvania reconciliation ‘monumental’: Manele

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

Deputy Director of the Ministry of Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs (MTGPEA) has described the reconciliation ceremony at Suvania in West Gizo as a monumental achievement.

Bruno Manele said the case took several years of dialogue, patience and cooperation before it was finally resolved in 2026.

He acknowledges the commitment shown by the two families involved, praising their willingness to work together over the years to restore peace.

“This reconciliation is a significant milestone not only for the families but also for our office,” Manele said.

He said the Suvania event marks the first time that the Peace Office in Gizo had successfully organised and facilitated a full reconciliation process of such scale.

Manele said the experience has provided valuable lessons for his team, particularly in understanding the importance of engaging in smaller reconciliation efforts as part of building towards larger resolutions.

“Our objective is to ensure communities live together in peace and unity.

“When communities are peaceful, it creates an environment where development can thrive,” he said.

Manele encourages communities facing conflicts to seek assistance from the Peace Office in Gizo, stressing that support is available to help resolve disputes through dialogue and traditional processes.

Manele reaffirms the ministry’s commitment to promoting harmony across communities, saying the Suvania reconciliation stands as an example of what can be achieved through patience, cooperation and mutual respect.

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Stability remains priority of GNUT

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Stability in leadership and institutions remains a central priority of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT).

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele told local media the above during his press conference on Wednesday this week.

He said that the recent appointments, the swearing in by David Gina, a Member of Parliament for South New Georgia, Randova Antetepari, and the swearing in by Ian Vaevaso as Commissioner of Police, highlight this.

“On Sunday evening, David Gina, Member of Parliament for South New Georgia, Randova Antetepari, was sworn in as the Minister for Rural Development. Furthermore, following a rigorous constitutional process, Mr Ian Vaevaso was sworn in as Commissioner of Police on the 24th of April.

“These appointments ensure continuity, stability and effective service delivery across government,” he said.

“As we continue through 2026, the Government for National Unity and Transformation remains focused on delivering its priorities, strengthening stability, advancing economic growth, improving infrastructure and investing in our people,” he said.

He said that the government’s responsibility is to reach rural communities and implement reforms effectively.

“Our responsibility is to ensure that government services reach our communities, that reforms are implemented effectively and that we respond decisively to both national and global challenges,” PM Manele said.

He further adds that nation-building requires discipline, patriotism and a shared commitment from all citizens.

The PM also acknowledged the media for the role they play in informing the people of the happenings and the partnership in playing an important role.

“I again acknowledge members of the media for your continued partnership and the important role and responsibility that you have in informing our people with factual information,” PM Manele said.

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Reconciliation paves peace and unity at Suvania community

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

TWO families in Suvania village, west of Gizo, have put their differences aside and embraced reconciliation, marking a significant step towards lasting peace and unity for future generations.

Brothers Ben Lavi and Willie Kazi embraced each other for the first time in 11 years during the reconciliation, Photo by Ben Bilua

The families of Willie Kazi and Ben Liva came together yesterday in a reconciliation ceremony witnessed by chiefs, church leaders, women representatives, officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, and officials from the Ministry of Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs (MTGPEA).

One family again. Suvania community and families come together one again, Photo by Ben Bilua

Emotions ran high as members of both families shed tears while greeting each other after the official program, symbolising a renewed commitment to rebuild broken relationships.

Mr Ben Liva and Ms Vivian Lodu signed the peace agreement, Photo by Ben Bilua

Speaking on behalf of the Liva family, Ms. Vivian Lodu expressed gratitude to those who worked behind the scenes to ensure the reconciliation took place.

“I thank the churches, elders and the MTGPEA for your efforts in bringing back peace in our families and clan. Thank God for mending what was broken and restoring relationships that seemed beyond repair,” she said.

Lodu said the reconciliation will help heal memories of the past and guide both families toward a shared future.

“This is a new beginning where we learn from the past without letting it define our future,” she said.

Lodu said she is confident the spirit of forgiveness will spread beyond the families into homes, workplaces, and the wider community.

“Today, my heart is overjoyed because my family has finally come together as one. I thank my brothers, sisters, sons and daughters for their heart of forgiveness and commitment to restore lasting peace,” Lodu said.

Chief Jons Rove signed the peace agreement, Photo by Ben Bilua

Representing the Willie Kazi family, Chief Jons Rove described the reconciliation as timely, noting that the conflict had dragged on for too long.

“I place this traditional money here as a symbol of forgiveness. On behalf of my tribe and people, I ask for your forgiveness,” he said.

PC Atansius Poloso signed as witness to the Peace Agreement, Photo by Ben Bilua
Community member and officials who witness the reconciliation ceremony, Photo by Ben Bilua

He urged both families to uphold peace and unity moving forward.

Deputy Director of MTGPEA Western Office, Bruno Manele, said the reconciliation marks the beginning of ongoing efforts to resolve conflicts and promote harmony within communities.

“Conflict resolution shows maturity—to forget the past and live together as one family.

“Reconciliation is about making peace, and it begins with God. It is written in the Gospel: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God,’” he said.

Manele commended both families for demonstrating love and commitment to peace, urging the community to continue living in unity and work together towards development for the benefit of all.

Photos: Ben Bilua

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Taxi fare rate remains in limbo ahead of price rise tomorrow

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BY IRWIN ANGIKI

As fuel prices are expected to rise tomorrow, a standard rate for taxi fare is still to be settled on.

Taxi owners and service owners are feeling the brunt of the mid-April jump in fuel prices with the current rate of $10 per kilometre. This is with a backdrop of Honiara’s severe traffic as road works continue in the city’s CBD.

The Honiara City Council (HCC) is currently in informal dialogue with the city’s taxi service with the aim to ensure that any increase in taxi rates should mirror the fuel price increase, and also be a genuine temporary measure to mitigate the fuel price increase.

City Clerk Justus Denni told Island Sun yesterday that HCC understands the challenges the fuel price increase is having on everyone, and wishes fairness for all if any increase in taxi fare rate is to happen.

“Taxi services should confirm if they increase their rates, it is purposely to buffer the high fuel prices, and will likewise decrease when fuel prices drop back in the future. Any increase would be done on a collective agreement basis.

“HCC does not have any ordinance for taxi fare, unlike bus fare. Without any formal executive resolution, I would say if there should be any taxi fare rate increase it should match the fuel price increase.

“What would happen if fuel price reduce, will taxi rates likewise reduce? If the increase in taxi rates is because of the fuel price increase, then if there is any reduction in fuel price in the future, then the rates must likewise be reduced,” Clerk Denni said.

Meanwhile, taxi fare rates are being applied ad hoc as taxi services scramble to rally together to come up with an agreed figure.

It is understood Kings and Classic taxi services are running at $12 per km.

Kings is looking at options which would be fair on both customers and taxi owners, such as having day-time rates at $12 per km to help students and working customers, and a night-time rate of $15 per km.

Classics Taxi service owner Sasani told Island Sun yesterday the new rate stands while they wait for any collective agreement between HCC and taxi services.

Prince Taxi service representative, Deme, told Island Sun yesterday they have come up with $15 per km after dialoguing and feedback with their clients.

He explains that for long distances such as 7km or more, they charge the normal $10 per km, whereas $15 per km for short distances such as a kilometre.

The hourly rate of $100 per hour, and $150 from Honiara CBD to the airport remains, Deme said.

“We make sure our drivers inform customers of the rate increase to allow them to choose whether to get off or accept the new rate and continue on the journey.”

Current fuel prices, which were effective on April 21, are petrol at $12.45 per litre and diesel at $13.24 per litre.

In a previous Island Sun report following the increase, taxi services Prince and Classic shared that their drivers were reporting huge losses at the usual rate of $10 per km.

The severe traffic in Honiara, coupled with the hot temperatures, made it more challenging with relatively short distances taking longer to reach while air-condition consumed fuel more.

Fuel prices are reported to rise at the beginning of next month, which is tomorrow. New prices take effect midnight tonight.

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RSIPF welcomes Commissioner Vaevaso

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) held a ceremonial parade program yesterday at the Rove Police Headquarters to formally mark the appointment of Ian Vaevaso as the new Police Commissioner.

The event was attended by the Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, Minister of Police, Jimson Tanangada, RSIPF Executive and regional partners.

Speaking during the event yesterday, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele described the ceremony as a moment of national significance, one that speaks not only to leadership transition, but to the enduring strength of the country’s institutions and the shared commitment to peace, justice and the rule of law.

“Today, we formally receive the Commissioner of Police of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force. This is more than a ceremonial occasion. It is a reaffirmation of public trust,” PM Manele said.

He said that it is a reflection of continuity and stability and a clear signal of the collective resolve to uphold law and order as the foundation of national progress.

“On behalf of the Government for National Unity and Transformation and the people of Solomon Islands, I extend my sincere congratulations to Commissioner Ian Vaevao on your appointment,” he said.

He told the Commissioner that he assumed the role at a critical juncture in the nation’s journey, one that calls for leadership, integrity and strategic vision.

“On this note, I also acknowledge your family for their support to you as you assume your duties and responsibilities within the force. The appointment of a Solomon Islander to this highest policing office reflects the growing confidence and maturity of our national institutions,” the PM said.

Delivering his remarks, Commissioner Vaevaso said that the appointment is not about one individual, but it is about responsibility.

“It is about duty to our constitution, to our communities, and to every citizen who looks to the police force for protection and fairness.

The new commissioner also assured the Government and the members of the RSIPF that he will focus on strengthening leadership, enforcing standards, and ensuring that the RSIPF operates with unity, discipline, and purpose.

 “If we remain grounded in integrity, guided by professionalism, and aligned with government policy direction, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force will continue to grow stronger, more capable, and trusted. This is our next chapter,” Vaevaso said.

Photo: Press Secretariat, OPMC

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6-month rolling plan for fuel security

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Special Duty Secretary to the Prime Minister, Dr Jimmie Rodgers says the government’s six-month fuel security plan is not fixed but continuously rolling and adaptable.

Dr Rodgers explained that discussions at both national and regional levels are ongoing as the country responds to global uncertainties affecting fuel supply.

“At the regional level, the Prime Minister highlighted that a task force was established during the Pacific Islands Forum Troika meeting held on April 16 in Nadi, Fiji.

“The task force has outlined three possible scenarios: First scenario: A short-term outlook ending in April, assuming the war ends quickly. Second scenario: Six months from May to November, assuming the war ends before November 30 and conditions begin returning to normal. Third scenario: A prolonged situation where the war continues beyond that timeframe,” he said.

Dr Rodgers said that the six-month plan should not be seen as fixed.

“It’s not a static time. The six months are just a roll-on plan. For now, our timeline runs up to November, but it keeps moving,” he said.

He added that importers are in constant communication daily, weekly, and monthly, meaning the planning is continuously updated.

“That is why the Biketawa Declaration is important.  The mechanism used to coordinate responses during crises. This framework has previously been used during the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) and the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing regional countries to support each other with personnel and supplies.

“In times of crisis, countries that are not our usual suppliers can step in because of the activation of Biketawa,” he said.

Dr Rodgers said that current fuel imports to Solomon Islands come from Singapore, Korea, Taiwan, and Malaysia.

“Biketawa framework could allow access to alternative suppliers if the situation worsens,” he said.

He said that global fuel production and stockpiles are concentrated in major countries such as the United States, Venezuela, and Russia, meaning international cooperation is essential during supply disruptions.

“The Biketawa framework can also enable regional stockpiling and shared access to resources. For example, recently the U.S opened a fuel storage facility in Papua New Guinea, which could be accessed through regional cooperation,” he said.

Dr Rodgers reiterated that flexibility remains key.

“The six months are not static, but continue to roll as the situation changes and as our importers adjust,” he said.

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Man accused of grievous harm to face justice after psychiatric treatment

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

A long-running criminal case involving a violent stabbing in Makira Province has resurfaced in the Central Magistrate Court, with the defendant now deemed fit to face charges after years of psychiatric treatment.

Warren Piringisau, 48, of Nataghera village, Santa Ana Island, has been in custody since August 9, 2018, following his arrest for allegedly stabbing fellow villager Golden Kaea, 40, during the early hours of August 8, 2018.

It was alleged that the defendant entered Isaac Waru’s home around midnight and stabbed Mr Kaea twice in the back with a small bent knife while he slept.

The victim sustained three penetrating stab wounds to his chest and back, requiring urgent medical care. He was treated at Gupuna Clinic and admitted to Kirakira Hospital before being transferred to the National Referral Hospital (NRH) in Honiara.

Doctors later concluded that Kaea’s injuries left him with permanent health complications, stating there was “very little (no chance) of full recovery”.

The case was initially heard in Kirakira but was transferred to Honiara in July 2020 after concerns were raised about the defendant’s mental health.

Psychiatric assessments by Dr Paul Orotaloa diagnosed the defendant with schizophrenia (disorganised subtype), noting severely disorganised thinking and incoherent speech.

For years, medical reports consistently found him unfit to enter a plea.

However, in a November 2025 medical review, Orotaloa reported that the defendant had shown improvement and was now capable of understanding court proceedings, although with a slower thought process.

This development has allowed the matter to return to court after nearly eight years of delay.

The defendant remains remanded at Rove Correctional Centre in Honiara as the court prepares to determine how to proceed with the case.

The incident has drawn attention to the challenges of balancing criminal liability with mental health considerations within our criminal justice system.

The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge of Grievous Harm which attracts a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment.

Sentencing submissions for this matter has been adjourned for Thursday, May 7, 2026, for ruling of sentence before Chief Magistrate Ricky Iomea.

Mrs Fransisca Angilio Luza is prosecuting the matter, and she represents the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and Mr Jason Anisi from the Public Solicitors’ Office represents the defendant.

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MORE REVENUE LOSS

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Documents show GNUT’s $50 million worth of tax exemption taking effect on April 24 and 27

BY IRWIN ANGIKI

Government this week allowed around $50 million in revenue to be foregone through tax exemptions to Gold Ridge Mining company.

Entry documents show several consignments for Gold Ridge Mining Ltd (GRML) on April 24 and 27 were granted 100 percent tax exemptions.

These are reportedly a portion of the latest tax exemptions handed out by GNUT government.

The item with the largest value is at $107 million. Total of Goods Tax (19.5 percent) and Custom Duty (10 percent) is $31.6 million. 100 percent tax exemption has foregone this revenue.

The smallest item is valued $854. Even this was not spared tax exemption. Its goods tax and custom duty totalled to $252.

Only one item was taxed, its goods tax and custom duty totalling to $4,310.

Finance Minister Rexon Ramofafia declined to comment when sought yesterday, instead referring the paper to his permanent secretary McKinnie Dentana. Mr Dentana has not responded to questions.

Questions sent to Gold Ridge Mining yesterday remained unanswered by press time last night.

Gold Ridge Mining spokesperson Ben Afuga told Island Sun that GRML has a MOU with the government.

Gold Ridge mine is regarded as one of the country’s flagship projects. Redevelopment started in 2019 and gold production and exports began in December 2022.

Government announced on November 30, 2022, that GRML had received $90 million worth of tax exemption.

Tax exemption for GRML is governed by its MOU with government signed on July 13, 2021.

Finance Minister Ramofafia told Island Sun that the MOU is currently under review. He could not give details to the review, or when it is expected to complete.

Under the MOU, 100 percent tax exemption from Goods Tax and Customs Duty on capital infrastructure – imported capital items used for the construction and reconstruction of mine facilities.

Full exemptions also for specialised machinery – mining, milling, smelting, refining, and welding machinery and equipment.

Exemption also covered operational consumables, which include explosives and related accessories, industrial chemicals and reagents necessary for processing, grinding materials: including grinding balls and mill liners, heavy duty tyres: specifically for vehicles rated four-wheel drive and above.

GRML is regarded a central pillar of the Solomon Islands’ economy, currently undergoing a massive expansion projected to significantly increase its contribution to national revenue and employment.

The expansion, launched in August last year and costing $6 billion is expected to generate $7.5 billion in revenue annually once fully operational, $2 billion of which will go government.

Meanwhile, pundits question how GNUT can continue to forego mega-millions in revenue when it is continuously asking donor countries for assistance, the latest of which was for recovery activities following tropical cyclone Maila.

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