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MONC deferred to Monday

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Solomon Islands National Parliament

By Ned Gagahe

The debate on the Motion of No Confidence (MONC) in Parliament has been postponed to Monday, December 16, with Parliament prioritizing the completion of the budget process first, according to Clerk to Parliament, Jefferson Hallu.

Speaking to Island Sun yesterday, Clerk Hallu explained that the MONC will follow the standard parliamentary procedure. The mover of the motion will present it, Members of Parliament (MPs) will debate it, and then it will be put to a vote.

Hallu noted that under the Constitution, the motion requires an absolute majority to pass—at least 26 votes. Unlike routine votes in Parliament, the MONC vote will be conducted via roll call to ensure accuracy in the tally.

When asked about the delay in tabling the motion, which matured on Thursday, Hallu clarified that while the MONC was due to be presented on Friday, there was no constitutional or procedural barrier preventing its deferral.

He stated that the decision to delay the debate was made to avoid leaving the country in suspense over the national budget, which took precedence.

“The idea is that there is a general consensus within Parliament to pass the budget first,” Hallu said.

He emphasized the importance of completing the budget process without interruption before addressing the MONC in Parliament.

The rescheduled debate on the MONC is now set for Monday, December 16, with attention shifting to how the proceedings will unfold following the budget’s passage.

Meanwhile, Parliament officially passed the 2025 Appropriation Bill 2024 yesterday. The Bill allocates over $4.83 billion for government operations in the upcoming fiscal year.

The approved legislation authorizes a total expenditure of Four Billion, Eight Hundred and Thirty-Two Million, Two Hundred and Seventy-Three Thousand, Seven Hundred and Thirty-Nine Dollars ($4,832,273,739).

This budget will support the Government’s operations and services for the fiscal year 2025.

Outgoing Japanese Ambassador Miwa Yoshiaki farewelled

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BY NED GAGAHE

At a farewell reception held on Wednesday, Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Peter Shanel Agovaka, bid a warm farewell to Japan’s Ambassador to the Solomon Islands,Miwa Yoshiaki, who is concluding his nearly three-year tenure in the country.

A farewell reception was held on Wednesday to honor Miwa Yoshiaki, with the event attended by prominent dignitaries, including senior government officials, heads of diplomatic missions, provincial premiers, the Leader of the Opposition, and other distinguished guests.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele was unable to attend the event due to a Parliament sitting; however, Minister Agovaka represented the government at the ceremony.

In his keynote address Minister Agovaka expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Miwa for his dedicated service, acknowledging the strengthening of ties between the two nations since the establishment of their diplomatic relations in 1978.

“Japan is one of the few countries that Solomon Islands forged diplomatic relationships with when we gained our political independence, and our relationship has stood the test of time.

“It has grown from strength to strength, and Ambassador Miwa has played a crucial role in this continued growth.”

Agovaka commended Miwa for his contributions, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, when Japan demonstrated its support for the Solomon Islands.

“Within three months of his posting in 2022, Ambassador Miwa delivered on Japan’s commitment to assist our COVID-19 efforts with a grant worth $10 million Solomon dollars,” Agovaka said.

Over the course of his tenure, Miwa’s efforts have contributed significantly to the ongoing development cooperation between the two nations.

The Minister highlighted key milestones, including the historic visit of Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi in March 2023, marking the first visit by a Japanese foreign minister to the Solomon Islands since diplomatic ties were established.

Under Ambassador Miwa’s leadership, Japan also provided vital assistance to various projects in the Solomon Islands, such as the establishment of the Solomon Islands National University Fisheries Research Centre and numerous grassroots human security projects.

Miwa was frequently present at handover ceremonies, engaging with local communities and becoming a familiar face in the Solomon Islands.

A particularly memorable event was the Ambassador’s visit to Wagina last month, where he attended a graduation ceremony and witnessed the completion and handover of the Japanese-funded Nikumaroro Community Hall “Te Maneaba.”

“I am sure that over the time you have spent in Honiara, you have built many good relationships and friendships with the people of the Solomon Islands. For this, and many other reasons, you will be dearly missed.” Agovaka said.

Speaking to the Island Sun, Ambassador Miwa expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Solomon Islands government and people for their warm hospitality and support throughout his tenure.

“It has been an honor to serve as Japan’s Ambassador to the Solomon Islands. The friendship between our two countries has grown stronger every year, and I am proud to have played a part in furthering this important relationship.” Miwa said.

Miwa reflected on the moments that had left a lasting impact during his time in the country, including the challenges posed by the global pandemic.

The Ambassador also expressed his admiration for the Solomon Islands’ people.

“The warmth, kindness, and resilience of the people here have deeply touched me. I will always carry these memories with me,” Miwa added.

“I truly hope that the relationship between Japan and the Solomon Islands will continue to flourish in the years to come.” Ambassador Miwa said.

In concluding his speech, Minister Agovaka raised a toast in honor of Ambassador Miwa’s service.

“On behalf of the government and the people of the Solomon Islands, I wish you all the best in the next chapter of your life,” he said.

“May our countries continue to deepen our friendship for many years to come.” Agovaka said.

Design for Kilu’ufi hospital project unveil

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Architectural design for the Japanese funded $120 million project for the improvement of Kilu’ufi hospital in Auki, Malaita province has unveiled.

The design will see improvement to some of the current infrastructure at Kilu’ufi hospital even an expansion to provide more space for services at the hospital.

The plan for the expansion of the hospital will mostly cover its eastern wing, where a soccer was located on the edge of the hospital.

This is where most work of the project will focus. According to a senior staff at the hospital, the design for the project has gone through lots of review till this final design.

He stressed that one important area the hospital management had discussed with Japan when designing the project is the operational cost of the hospital.

“We try as much to ensure the project is design in a way where require health service is offer to people with less operational cost.

“This is important for better management of the cost to run the hospital. Now, Kitano is here and has began work on the project,” the staff said.

The staff added that the current design has also considered rooms for further expansion and development of Kilu’ufi provincial hospital.

According to Japanese Ambassador, His Excellency MIWA Yoshiaki, the project will not only offer clinical services but bolster infrastructure at the hospital.

While the project will provide central clinic and delivery departments, it will also strengthen water supply system, electricity and sewerage at the hospital.

The project is also designed as an alternative to National Referral Hospital, where it will help a lot in off-loading burdens from NRH in Honiara.

He project has already been implemented and expect to complete in the first quarter of 2026.

$300 Police clearance fee

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Chairperson Kolombangara Development Advisory Committee (KDAC), Hon. Jimson Fiau Tanagada MP, during discussions held this week.

By Ned Gagahe

The fee for police clearance certificates is set to increase from $90 to $300 next year, as announced by the Minister for Police, National Security, and Correctional Services, Jimson Fiau Tanangada, during a parliamentary session yesterday.

Opposition Leader Matthew Wale raised concerns during the Committee of Supply session, questioning the significant $5.3 million in revenue allocated under the Police Ministry’s budget for police services.

Wale specifically asked about the services provided by the police, focusing on the revenue generated from police clearances. He noted that the current cost for a clearance is approximately $100 and sought clarification on whether other services contribute to the $5.3 million revenue.

In response, Minister Tanangada confirmed that the current fee for a police clearance is $90. However, he announced plans to raise the fee to $300 next year under new regulations, explaining that the increase would modestly boost police revenue.

The Opposition Leader strongly opposed the proposed hike, emphasizing the financial strain it would impose on individuals, particularly aspiring Labour Mobility Unit (LMU) workers, who may struggle to afford the higher fee.

Wale argued that the existing $100 fee was reasonable and sufficient, urging the government to reconsider the proposed increase. He highlighted the additional financial pressures many people already face, including medical expenses.

“Times are tough, and it’s already hard for people to come up with $100,” Wale said. “The proposed $300 fee will place an undue burden on the public. I urge the Minister to review this decision and keep the fee at $100.”

The Opposition Leader’s plea underscores concerns about balancing revenue generation with affordability for the public.

MILLION-DOLLAR SUPPORT

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MPG to receive $11 million PCDF funding

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

AUKI

The Malaita Provincial Government (MPG) is set to receive $11 million in funding from the national government through the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF) program this year.

This allocation follows the province’s recent qualification for the PCDF program after nearly three years of disqualification from this critical government funding initiative.

Malaita Provincial Secretary, Mr. Eric George, announced the funding after attending a Joint Oversight Committee (JOC) meeting in Honiara, where the PCDF program was a key topic of discussion.

George confirmed Malaita Province’s $11 million allocation, commending the collective efforts that led to passing the recent PCDF assessment.

However, he emphasized that further improvements are necessary, particularly in areas that affect the performance measures of the PCDF program.

“The province hasn’t done enough, as reflected in the recent assessment report, but qualifying for the PCDF program is far better than being disqualified,” George admitted.

He explained that the $11 million funding is based on the points scored by the province in meeting the minimum conditions of the PCDF program, with higher-scoring provinces receiving larger allocations.

George stressed the importance of improving the province’s performance in future assessments and highlighted the need for a disciplined approach in utilizing the $11 million funding effectively.

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.

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