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Premier Veo calls on National government to address PCDF assessments

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Premier of Western Province Billy Veo, has called on the national government to seriously reconsider the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF) assessments, which are currently implemented through the Provincial Governance Strengthening Programme (PGSP) of the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS).

Premier Veo made this appeal during the Western Province Day celebration, held in Gizo on Wednesday, 11th December.

In his address, Premier Veo acknowledged the importance of good governance and accountability in the distribution of PCDF funds but emphasized that denying citizens of Western Province access to vital resources is unacceptable.

“What are we Provincial Governments? Are we just a division of MPGIS?” the Premier asked. “It is demoralizing and demeaning that an elected provincial government continues to be assessed yearly to access the PCDF while national government ministries, which receive millions of dollars each year, are not subjected to any scrutiny.”

Veo stressed the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF) is a performance-based grant administered through the PGSP. Provinces must meet specific minimum conditions and performance measures set by the program to qualify for the annual PCDF allocation. Since the introduction of this grant in 2008, the 2025/26 financial cycle will be the first time Western Province will miss out on much-needed PCDF funding.

He adds last month, the Government of Solomon Islands, with support from the European Union and New Zealand, launched another performance-based grant called the Local Climate Adaptive Living Facility (LoCAL).

This initiative, which is part of the PCDF, aims to help provincial governments empower their communities to tackle the impacts of climate change. However, Western Province will be excluded from the LoCAL program, as its access to the PCDF funding is currently blocked Veo stated.

Following the news that Western Province will not have access to PCDF funding for the 2025/26 period, Premier Veo urged MPGIS and the national government to review how the program is implemented to ensure that the province and its people are not deprived of essential resources.

Looking ahead, Premier Veo expressed optimism regarding the ongoing review of the PGSP. “The current PGSP program is unsustainable, and we sincerely hope that any recommendations made through the review will be taken seriously,” he said.

Judgement today for man accused of raping his two nieces

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

Judgement for a man accused of raping two of his nieces, aged 14 and eight years old, is expected today at the high court.

The defendant who cannot be named to protect the identity of the two alleged victims pleaded not guilty to the rape charge and a trial was conducted at the High Court before Judge John Keniapisia.

Prosecution called two witnesses and after they completed their case, the defendant opted to remain silent and a witness apart from the defendant was called to testify for defence case.

The first alleged victim in this case is an eight-year-old victim.

Prosecution alleged when the incident occurred, the eight-year-old was allegedly sweeping outside their house when the defendant showed her his private body part.

When the girl tried to escape, the defendant allegedly shot her leg with a stone, causing her to fall.

As she was on the ground, the defendant allegedly went to her and carried her into his house where he sexually abused and raped her.

After the incident the defendant then allegedly gave money to the victim.

The second victim is a 14-year-old girl.

Prosecution alleged the defendant threatened her with a bush knife and raped her in two occasions in 2022.

In January 2023, the defendant again committed the offence on the same victim when she was on her way home after selling cassava at the Kastom Garden market.

Prosecution further alleged that after these incidents, the defendant fled into hiding.

After seven months of hiding, the defendant returned at 4am on August 21, 2023 to his sister’s house where he indecently assaulted his other niece.

That was when he was spotted and captured by some people living in the area and arrested and charged.

Delilah Kukura of Public Solicitor’s Office represents the defendant, whilst Public Prosecutors Hellen Naqu and Georgina Oroi appear for the Crown.

Court rules defendant in arson case to be an adult

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

Court has ruled that the accused in an arson case is 18 years old, therefore an adult.

In delivering the ruling, court said prosecution failed to provide sufficient evidence to conclusively establish the defendant’s date of birth. Thus, court cannot rely on the crown witness who is the biological mother of the defendant, because of her inconsistent statements in court.

Therefore, court applied guidelines set out in the Court of Appeal case of R v Salemu, where court was satisfied that the defendant appears to be a person who is 18 years of age.

Defendant Thomas Pegoa is charged with one count of arson contrary to section 319 (a) of the Penal Code and he pleaded guilty to the charged.

On September 6, 2024, when the matter came to court for mention, prosecution and defence told court there was a disagreement with the age of the defendant.

Prosecution argued that the defendant was a 22-year-old adult while defence argued that the defendant was 16 years old.

Counsels then make application on the issue of the age and newton hearing was heard in court on October 22.

During the newton hearing the prosecution called one witness which is the biological mother of the defendant.

Yesterday counsels submit their sentencing and mitigation submissions and matter moved to December 18 for sentence. Remand for Pegoa extended.

The agreed facts stated, on the 2nd of July, 2024 between 1pm and 2 pm, the defendant willfully and unlawfully set fire to the complainant house, which was constructed with bush materials.

The complainant is the mother of the defendant.

The defendant had been drinking since the 1st of July, 2024 and just returned home the morning of the 2nd of July, 2024.

The defendant asked his mother to request the outstanding amount of $ 400.00 and a shell money owed to him by his brother-in-law, as part of the compensation for impregnant his younger sister.

The defendant was angry with his mother after she failed to bring back the $ 400.00 and a shell money from his brother in -law.

Defendant set the complainant house on fire by lighting coconut leaves with a match and placed the lit coconut leaves against the outside wall of the house.

The complainant house was completely burned to the ground. The total value of the complainant house is about $ 4000.00.

Sabrina Habu of the Office of Public Prosecution act for crown and Vincent Nomae of the PSO represent the defendant.

Court rules 3 men accused of arson have a case to answer

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

Court has ruled that three men accused of burning two houses at a village in West Guadalcanal have a case to answer.

However, the men were acquitted of a third charge, assault causing body harm, since prosecution failed to bring the witness who is also the complainant.

The ruling was delivered yesterday at the Magistrate Court after defence made a no case to answer submission on Monday this week.

Saverio Mate, 25, Lency Raga, 40 and John Longatabo, 28, were charged jointly with two counts of arson and one count of assault causing bodily harm.

They pleaded not guilty and a trial was conducted before Principal Magistrate Fatimah Taeburi.

Prosecution called two witnessed to testify, the complainant and his wife, and tendered 13 exhibits.

After prosecution closed its case on December 9 defence filed for a no case to answer.

The matter was adjourned to December 16 where court made directions for the defence counsels to file closing submissions.

Prosecution alleged that on October 12, 2022, the defendants were alleged to be part of a group of men that went and asked compensation from the complainant at the Kakalu Village, West Guadalcanal.

They claimed the complainant stole their pig and that he must give them some money, if not they would return and burn down his house.

Later, the defendants went and set fire to the complainant’s two dwelling houses.

With regards to charge of assault causing bodily harm, the three defendants on 11th and 12 of October, 2022 at around 1800hrs to 0400hrs, between Kakalu village and Matakao village, West Guadalcanal, did unlawfully assaulted another person there by occasioning the said person, actual bodily harm by grabbing, kicking his face and also struck his back with the side of a bush knife and shot him with a sling striking his foot with a piece of galvanized iron pipe.

Jeremy Oiofa of DPP appears for the Crown and PSO act for the defendants.

Western Province Day marked in Gizo

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Western Province marked its second appointed day on 11th December in Gizo. The official day is on 7th December, but this year it was shifted to 11th December to accommodate the schedules of key guests and to fall on a weekday.

The official program commenced with a parade from the Provincial Administration Headquarters, marching through to the field.

Premier Billy Veo, in his remarks, highlighted pressing issues facing the province and called on the national government to facilitate interventions to make them a reality. Specifically, Premier Veo requested:

  1. The signing of a communiqué to outline priorities and areas of support between the two governments.
  2. Progress on the statehood agenda, including the transition process and the implementation of the Constituent Assembly.
  3. A review and revision of the Provincial Government Act (PGA) 1997 and the revenue-sharing policy.
  4. An assessment of PCDF funding to ensure fair and sustainable allocation.
  5. Infrastructure development, including airport projects, road upgrades, and improvements to the water supply.
  6. The transfer of Perpetual Estates under the Commissioner of Lands to the Western Provincial Assembly.

The long-time politician emphasized that these issues are crucial for the development and well-being of the citizens of Western Province and urged the national government to prioritize them.

Minister of Provincial Government Wayne Ghemu applauded the province for choosing a very fitting theme for this year’s celebration: ‘Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Creativity Rooted in Our Culture for the Advancement of Western Province’s Future.’ He emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship, innovation, and creativity, which are deeply rooted in the province’s culture and traditions. He highlighted the province’s entrepreneurial spirit, citing examples of successful businesses and job creation.

“As a government, we are dedicated to supporting and nurturing this entrepreneurial spirit, providing the necessary resources, training, and infrastructure to help our local businesses thrive.”

The Ranonga Simbo Constituency Parliament representative remarked that the national government recognizes the difficulties Western Province is facing and is committed to supporting their efforts.

“…A lot of progress has been made in Western Province in recent years since the introduction of the Provincial Capacity Development Fund. Under the PCDF, we have made significant progress in delivering infrastructure projects that enhance our resilience to climate change. Western Province has successfully completed 381 projects, totaling SBD$50.04 million. These projects have included improvements in water management systems, climate-resilient building designs, and coastal protection measures, in addition to education and health sector projects.”

However, he noted that delays in accessing development funds have hindered progress and urged the provincial government to review its decisions to ensure that it meets the minimum conditions for accessing these funds.

Minister Ghemu also highlighted the importance of the tuna industry in the province, which contributes significantly to the national economy.

“The tuna industry, led by companies like SolTuna, is a key part of this contribution, accounting for 18% of the national GDP. This industry not only supports our economy but also provides employment to thousands of Solomon Islanders. SolTuna, based in Noro, Western Province, employs over 1,800 workers, 64% of whom are women. This makes SolTuna a major private-sector employer in the Solomon Islands. As the largest fishery in the country, it not only supports the national GDP but also provides employment opportunities, helping to boost the local economy.”

He further praised SolTuna for its commitment to sustainable practices and fair trade in the region.

On a policy level, Minister Ghemu mentioned that his ministry is working closely with the government to resume revenue-sharing discussions and increase fiscal autonomy for provincial governments. He also mentioned that work has begun on reviewing the Provincial Government Act 1997, with a draft bill expected to be tabled by the second quarter of 2025.

The celebrations were vibrant and lively, bringing together people from diverse ethnic and island backgrounds to share in entertainment and Thanksgiving festivities.

The celebrations will conclude today with an evening Christmas carol program at JFK Stadium.

Bosowai emphasises health as priority

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BY NED GAGAHE

In a compelling speech delivered during the second reading of the 2025 Appropriation Bill, Minister of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), Dr Paul Popora Bosawai stressed the vital importance of health in the overall well-being of the nation.

Addressing members of Parliament, Mr Bosowai pointed out that good health is the foundation of a fulfilling life.

“Money doesn’t make a person rich or happy, but good health does. Without health, a person cannot fully enjoy life,” Bosawai said.

Bosowai highlighted that the health of the people should be a priority for all lawmakers, regardless of political affiliation.

He urged members to work together to ensure the well-being of the population, emphasizing that the efforts of both the government and opposition should converge in support of a common goal — improving the health outcomes of the nation.

“The current times are challenging, but we must remain united in ensuring the health of our people is paramount,” he said.

The minister also expressed gratitude to the members of Parliament for their attention and contributions during the debate on the 2025 budget.

His remarks echoed the government’s commitment to addressing healthcare needs, as discussions around the national budget continue to unfold.

Bosowai’s call for solidarity among lawmakers underscored the importance of prioritising public health funding to foster a healthier society and create lasting change in the nation’s healthcare system.

2025 budget for agriculture focused on turnover activities

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By Loretta B Manele


The overall focus of the 2025 budget for agriculture is to grow the economy by targeting quick turnover activities while building a diversified production base.


Franklyn Wasi, the minister for Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) said this during the debate on the 2025 Appropriation Bill 2024 in parliament on Monday.


He added that this focus is also to build a diversified production base at the same time ensuring food security safety and nutrition for our people.


Wasi explained that the quick turnover return on investment are; cocoa, coconut, kava and cassava.
Meanwhile, he said they anticipate an increase in cocoa and copra export from next year onwards due to the high international market price for cocoa and the establishment of the cocoa and copra revolving fund to support producers, buyers and exporters.


Moreover, Wasi expressed that in most rural areas in Solomon Islands there are many challenges such as the lack of infrastructure for production and harvest, limited access to finance and markets, lack of tools and equipment, poor extension services and adverse weather patterns and climate change.


On this note, he said the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) recognizes that addressing these challenges will grow the agriculture sector of our nation hence it has prioritised eight policies for the ministry to implement during its term.


Wasi stated that these policies include; rebuilding the ministry and its functions, policies and legislative reforms, strategic revitalisation of extension services, increase in the export of commodities and value-added products, diversification of the agricultural base, rebuilding the research capacity of the ministry, making agriculture attractive and protecting the fauna and flora while facilitating the access to markets.


He said the eight policy priorities allocated to the ministry for implementation during the tenure of GNUT aims to strengthen food security, enhance agriculture productivity and promote sustainable agriculture practices that improve rural livelihoods and contribute to the country’s economy.


Wasi noted that this includes supporting local farmers, encouraging modern farming techniques, increasing investment in agriculture and fostering partnerships to drive agribusiness development and resilience against climate change.

Bina Harbour project makes progress: Giro

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By Loretta B Manele

The Bina Harbour Tuna Onshore Processing Plant Project has made some progress throughout 2024.

Nestor Giro, minister for the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) spoke on the above when he contributed to the debate of the 2025 Appropriation Bill 2024 on Monday this week.

Addressing parliament, he said the project remains as their highest priority this year and highlighted a number of key progresses made under the project.

These progresses as stated include; indicating business case and presenting a due diligence report to cabinet in June 2024 and the convening of Bina Harbour development partners round table in October 2004.

Giro said the business case and due diligence report was presented to cabinet in June this year with an estimated SIG capex of USD 202 million and private capex of USD 32.5 million.

“Cabinet endorsed the business case and mandated the ministry of planning and ministry of fisheries to do further consultations with all stakeholders to review the cost.”

Other progresses are; the Ministry for National Planning, Aid and Coordination is now exploring financial options with development partners, fisheries ministry is now concluding non-disclosure agreements with identified potential tuna plant investors, MFMR together with ministries of planning and finance have requested SIPA (SI Ports Authority) to review present cost estimates and explore wider SIPA participation in the port development and lastly, strategic environmental and social assessment are underway building on IFC baseline studies.

Giro stressed that going forward in 2025, they plan to continue with technical investigations and planning like water and waste water design delivery plan, harbour access and water supply, community engagement, power supply scoping and telecommunications scoping.

He calls on all members of parliament to work together for the Bina Harbour Tuna Onshore Processing Plant Project.

“I call on all of us to work together to bring Bina into fruition as this development will not only accelerate our economic growth but also improve our national position towards graduation from the LDC (Least Developed Country) status and address instability caused by lack of employment and livelihood opportunities in Malaita and the rest of the country.”

Giro noted that the project is to give effective economic transformation into the policies the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) is pursuing.

Lilo concerned over rising national debt, fiscal health

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BY NED GAGAHE

During the Second Reading Debate of the 2025 budget on Tuesday, MP for Central Honiara, Gordon Darcy Lilo raised concerns over the country’s escalating national debt, particularly the substantial increase in debt servicing outlined in the 2025 budget.

Lilo warned that national debt servicing has nearly doubled compared to previous years, pointing to a growing financial strain that could jeopardize the country’s long-term economic stability.

The MP for Central Honiara highlighted that the rising debt burden will likely contribute to a widening gap in the national budget, primarily driven by debt financing.

Lilo said the country continues to struggle with the fiscal impact of debt repayments, which now consume a larger portion of government revenue.

Lilo expressed worry that without careful management, the debt-driven budget deficits could undermine the government’s ability to fund essential services such as health, education, and infrastructure.

“The increasing reliance on debt financing is a significant concern. If we continue down this path, it will not only strain our budget but could also lead to economic decline,” Lilo said.

“Our budget is being driven by borrowed funds, which limits our capacity to invest in other critical areas that would help our economy grow.”

Lilo also questioned the government’s ability to manage this mounting fiscal pressure, particularly in light of the uncertainties surrounding future financing.

He pointed out that negotiations for loans from international institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) could be lengthy and challenging, further delaying any relief from the financial gap.

Lilo urged the government to prioritize transparency and provide clear details on the sources of financing, including where the country would obtain the funds needed to cover its growing deficit.

He also recommended that the government closely monitor its discretionary spending, emphasizing the need to focus on maintaining essential services while managing debt-related expenses.

We need to manage our people’s expectation: Kenilorea

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Peter Kenilorea Jnr.

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The leader of the independent group and Member of Parliament for East Are’are, Peter Kenilorea Jnr, has urged government members to use appropriate language when communicating with public.

During the parliamentary debate on the 2025 Appropriation Bill 2024 this week, Kenilorea expressed his concerns regarding the messaging strategies of MPs and their implications for public understanding.

He said that it is often the case that MPs overstate their roles as government representatives through their choice of words.

“We will increase, so, so, so. Terms like ‘increasing’ are misleading. Regarding fisheries, the notion of increasing catches is not our responsibility, Mr. Speaker. That task lies with the private sector, specifically those who possess the expertise in fishing,” said the MP.

“We will be cultivating cassava. It is not our direct responsibility; rather, it will be the community that undertakes this task. It is crucial that our messaging reflects our role in supporting and facilitating the creation of a framework that allows for growth and development,” he said.

He emphasised the necessity for members of Parliament, as representatives of the government, to avoid overstating their capabilities regarding their statements and proposed actions.

“I frequently encounter this type of rhetoric. Even prior to the Public Accounts Committee meeting, we see enthusiastic ministries proclaiming their intentions, suggesting that they will achieve this or that. Such declarations create significant expectations among the public. If we are not cautious, we risk setting ourselves up for failure and disappointment due to these heightened expectations,” Kenilorea said.

“I believe it is essential for us to communicate accurately regarding our roles as policymakers and the objectives we aim to accomplish,” he added.

He said that, as a small nation, much depends on the effectiveness of government delivery, and that the language used must be refined.

“It is essential for the public to grasp the true purpose of government. Our role is not to impose increases; rather, we aim to facilitate, support, and create an environment conducive to development,” he said.

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