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How the government manages tax and duty exemption

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Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.

By Loretta B Manele

Manasseh Sogavare, minister of finance and treasury spoke on how the government manages tax and duty exemption in parliament yesterday.

He said this has been a subject of public of debate within and outside parliament recently.

“I know that the question is noticed by the Leader of the Opposition on this paper, requesting a statistical data on the value of the exemptions granted, whom granted and the dates the exemptions were granted in 2024 up to 31st October”

Sogavare said on the requirement for the government to be transparent and accountable for the administration of the exemption regime, he needs to inform the house that the Regulations 32, 33 and 34 of the Revenue and Customs Exemption Committee in the Non-Statutory Exemption Regulations 2013 made pursuant to Section 81 of the Customs and Excise Act, that require the release of prescribed information, both by the minister, the Exemption Committee and the Control of Customs and Exercise.

“To prescribe the method of such release, which does not include entertaining a question on the floor about that method”

Sogavare said the regulations 32 require the minister to release the precise information or certain elements of the information that is requested by the Leader of Opposition requesting, by way of a quarterly public gazette, contrary to the way the Leader of the Opposition is requesting transparency and accountability by way of a question on the floor about it.

He also stated that he draws attention of the house on standing orders 12-1-K, which makes the following claim and he quotes,

“A question shall not be asked seeking information which can be found in accessible documents or ordinary works of reference”

Sogavare said the Leader of the Opposition and anyone for that matter can access the published gazette to access this information.

“Therefore, the question noticed by the Leader of the Opposition on this matter may be out of order”

Sogavare said the release of information by the Exemption Committee under Regulation 33-1, by way of an annual report to the Public Accounts Committee protects the identity of the recipients, as follows and quotes.

“The Exemption Committee shall provide annual information to the Public Accounts Committee on the nature and cost of all tax and duty exemptions granted in the previous fiscal year”

He stated that under regulation 33-2 it reads as follows.

“In that regard, the information provided by the Exemption Committee will not include names by the means of identifying individual recipients”

Sogavare said the latest report submitted is with the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee.

He stressed that the reason for this prohibition is in line with international best tax practice and is to protect our taxpayers who enjoy a fiduciary relationship with the Commission of the Inland Revenue and Control of Customs in all matters concerning their tax affairs.

Sogavare added there is also the obligation to protect a fiduciary relationship which functions on mutual trust and confidence and it is clear that we cannot discuss names of taxpayers in this house.

He said the fiduciary relationship between the taxpayers and the tax authority is one thing and importantly, for the simple fact that they cannot defend themselves on the floor of parliament against racist references and other incautious references that may be made against them on the floor of parliament.

Parliament adjourned for Wed

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By Loretta B Manele

Parliament has been adjourned for Wednesday, 4th November, giving 2 more days for the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC) to conclude their hearings and reports.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele moved the special adjournment in parliament yesterday.

“I move that at its adjournment on Monday 2nd December 2024, parliament shall adjourn to Wednesday 4th December 2024”

Manele said the reason for the special adjournment to Wednesday 4th December 2024 is to give additional time for the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to complete its hearings on the 2025 budget as well as to finalise its report on the budget.

He added that it will also give time for the Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC) to complete its hearing on the Constituent Assembly Amendment Bill 2024.

Manele acknowledged the PAC chairman, Gordon Darcy Lilo and his committee members for the work that has been done so far.

He also took the opportunity to remind ministries and stakeholders that are yet to appear before the committee to stick to the schedule that the chairman and the committee have given.

Manele said this is so that PAC can quickly complete its hearings and ensure that its report is ready as soon as possible and send it to those that will appear before the Bills and Legislation Committee in terms of the Constituent Assembly Amendment Bill 2024.

‘I AM STILL COMMITTED’

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Sogavare. Photo credit- MAVIS PODOKOLO

Sogavare reaffirms commitment to improving tax and duty exemptions

BY LORETTA B. MANELE

Manasseh Sogavare, Minister for Finance and Treasury (MoFT), has reaffirmed his commitment to improving the administration of the tax and duty exemptions regime.

Speaking in parliament yesterday, Sogavare addressed what he described as a “widely debated view” circulating on social media and within political circles on both sides of the house, alleging that he had backtracked on his commitment to granting exemptions.

“I have not erred one bit. I am still committed to improving the administration of the tax and duty exemptions regime,” Sogavare stated firmly.

The minister highlighted that he had already informed parliament of his intention to review tax clauses in all mining agreements, and this review is progressing well.

He explained that the purpose of the review is to align tax incentives with the country’s tax laws and international best practices, ensuring greater clarity and effectiveness in their application.

To this end, Sogavare noted that the Economic Reform Unit within his ministry is collaborating closely with the Attorney General’s Office and the Ministry of Mines to draft proposed standard clauses for negotiation with mining companies.

“I understand that this work is nearing completion,” he added.

Sogavare also indicated that new clauses would be incorporated into existing mining agreements, requiring the government to engage in renegotiations with mining companies to implement the changes.

Tourism target 100,000 visitors

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

THE Ministry of Culture and Tourism has set a target to attract 100,000 visitors to the country by the year 2035.

“That is the overarching target we are working on starting next year (2025) until 2035,” Permanent Secretary (PS), Barney Sivoro told the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in a hearing over the weekend.

Sivoro said that the ministry is confident in meeting this target based on the various ongoing developments,

Some of the developments the PS pointed out include the upgrades of international and domestic airports nationwide, new and unique products, the reciprocal visa on arrival for Chinese nationals, the recent discovery of the biggest coral in Makira province, sports tourism, and many others. that can potentially boost the number of visitors traveling into the country. 

Additionally, Sivoro informed the PAC that another positive development for the ministry is the ongoing partnership with the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Solomon Islands Threshold Program (SITHP)

“With the support of SITHIP, we have already profiled 100 plus tourism investment ready sites in the Western, Guadalcanal, and Central provinces, some of them are already in the market now and we have already engaged a consultant who will be negotiating with potential investors,” he added.  

Sivoro stressed that by achieving this target, the tourism sector could potentially become a billionaire sector, contributing immensely to the country’s national GDP. 

‘I believe in the inherent dignity and rights of every individual’: Subu

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    BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

    Human rights defenders work tirelessly to advocate for the rights of all people. Among them is Phillip Subu, a passionate youth and indigenous rights advocate from Malaita and Makira provinces in the Solomon Islands.

    Subu, who identifies as both an environmental and indigenous rights defender, dedicates himself to protecting natural resources and advocating for cultural preservation. He also champions youth empowerment and development through his leadership roles, including serving as the President of the Malaita Provincial Youth Council and former Program Manager of the Mala I Tolo Indigenous Guardianship Trust.

    Phillip Subu (3rd from right) was Elected as Treasurer of the Pacific Youth Council (PYC).


    Subu’s work encompasses a wide range of issues, including economic empowerment, climate resilience, and indigenous education. He introduced IT education training in Malaita and collaborates with organizations like Save the Children and the Pacific Youth Council. His efforts have extended to gender equality initiatives, exemplified by his participation in the Regional Conference on Gendered Climate Policy and Environmental Governance in Fiji earlier this year.

    He believes in creating opportunities for young people to develop leadership skills and engage in decision-making processes. Through projects like Youth for Change Solomon Islands, Subu has promoted democratic values, strengthened youth organizations, and given young people a platform in political decision-making.


    As a human rights defender, Subu has faced resistance from traditional leaders, a lack of understanding of human rights in communities, and insufficient resources for advocacy. Despite these hurdles, he has successfully raised awareness of issues like land rights violations, youth exclusion, and gender-based violence.

    “I believe in the dignity and rights of every individual. My work ensures that vulnerable populations are protected, their voices heard, and opportunities created for all,” Subu said.

    President of the Malaita Youth Council, Phillip Subu speaking at this year’s Regional Conference on Gender Responsive Climate Policy and Environmental Governance in Fiji. Photo supplied.


    Subu highlights key human rights challenges in the Solomon Islands, including deforestation and mining without proper consent, youth exclusion, and insufficient support for victims of gender-based violence. He calls for stronger legal protections for tribal landowners, mandatory youth councils, and more accessible educational programs to combat discrimination.

    He also urges the Solomon Islands to ratify international conventions on indigenous rights, environmental protection, and youth empowerment to enhance accountability and uphold human rights.


    Subu believes both national and provincial governments must take action to improve human rights, including enforcing existing laws, providing adequate funding for human rights programs, and integrating human rights frameworks into local governance.

    “It is critical to strengthen the justice system, train leaders on human rights, and ensure local policies align with international standards,” he said.

    Subu’s work demonstrates the power of advocacy in creating change and advancing the dignity and rights of all individuals.

    “This profile of Human Rights Defender in Solomon Islands is made possible with funding support from the Power Up project of The Asia Foundation (TAF) and the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA).”

    Invest equally in both Tourism and Culture

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    BY INDY MAEALASIA

    MEMBER of Parliament (MP) for North New Georgia, John Dean Kuku has called on the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, to invest equally in both Tourism and Culture. 

    Kuku raised these concerns during a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearing over the weekend.

    He stressed that speaking from the ministry’s budget, much is directed toward tourism and less toward culture.

    “Your ministry plays an important role in shaping the future of our children in terms of culture if we give no recognition to that, we are killing ourselves,” he said. 

    Echoing the same sentiments, chair of the PAC and MP for Central Honiara, Gordon Darcy Lilo added that culture promotes the real identity of the Solomon Islands and there must be a balance between both areas.

    Acknowledging the call, Permanent Secretary (PS) Barney Sivoro added that the ministry is trying to change its approach by investing in exposing the various cultural landscapes across the country.

    Wale calls for action

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    BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

    Opposition Leader Mathew Wale has called upon the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Forestry and Research to take action against loggers who frequently violate the logging regulations and practices established in the Solomon Islands.

    While recognizing the efforts of the Ministry, Mr. Wale emphasized the necessity for Richardson Raomae to ensure that loggers are held accountable for their actions.

    He stated, “It is imperative to criminalize those who disregard these regulations and laws. This includes individuals who exceed concession boundaries, operate above the 400-meter elevation, and harvest logs that do not meet size requirements. They must be held accountable and face imprisonment for 10 to 20 years.”

    “If companies are found to have logged timber below the mandated diameter or size, they should face imprisonment. The penalties must exceed the financial gains they obtained from such activities; otherwise, the current situation will persist,” he stated.

    During a recent appearance before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), he expressed to officials from the Ministry of Forestry that loggers disregard legal regulations and the welfare of Solomon Islanders, emphasizing the urgent need to address this issue.

    “It is essential to reconsider the conditions of their licenses. Implement stringent requirements for compliance,” he advised.

    He noted that at logging sites across the nation, no one takes responsibility, as companies simply abandon their machinery without regard for their actions.

    “They must restore the sites after their operations. Leaving behind environmental degradation is unacceptable. These are fundamental values. They exploit our leniency, making it all too easy for them to take advantage of us,” said Wale.

    He added that loggers are adept at inciting discord among families and tribes, pitting chiefs against their members, and even influencing high-level decision-makers.

    “Once they tempt us with small incentives, we surrender, and then everything weakens immediately,” he said.

    In 2023, the Ministry suspended 20 logging companies for operating in forests situated above 400 meters in elevation, and this year, 9 companies faced similar sanctions for violating logging regulations.

    Mr. Wale subsequently called on the Ministry to provide further details for the PAC.

    Manele meets Ocean conservation leaders, highlights importance of marine research

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    Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele held a productive meeting with Prince Albert II of Monaco and the National Geographic Pristine Seas team aboard the research vessel ARGO. Accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister Bradley Smoky Tovosia and Foreign Affairs Minister Peter Shanel Agovaka, the Prime Minister discussed ocean conservation and its significance for Solomon Islands.

    Joining the discussions was award-winning actor and environmental advocate Leonardo DiCaprio, who emphasized his commitment to ocean protection, renewable energy, and sustainable tourism.

    Paul Rose, expedition leader for National Geographic Pristine Seas, expressed gratitude to the Solomon Islands Government for enabling the research, calling the expedition’s success “overwhelming.” Executive Director Enric Sala explained that the team, supported by local experts, used advanced technology to study the country’s marine ecosystems and gather critical data.

    Prime Minister Manele highlighted the importance of the findings, stating they will guide the alignment of national ocean policies with economic goals. “This research will address data gaps and create opportunities to reshape ocean protection policies for sustainable growth,” he said.

    The parties agreed to explore further collaboration, and Deputy Prime Minister Tovosia even had the opportunity to dive in Pristine Seas’ submarine ARGONAUTA. Capable of descending over 1,300 meters, the advanced underwater lab is equipped with cutting-edge tools for marine exploration.

    The expedition, a partnership between the Solomon Islands Government and National Geographic Pristine Seas, will culminate in a documentary set for release in early 2025.

    Gender-based violence is not a private issue but a public crisis

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    By Loretta B Manele

    Gender-based violence is not a private issue, it’s a public crisis that has ripple effects that run through families, workplaces and entire communities.

    Tristan Armstrong, Australian High Commission’s Development Counsellor raised this at the SIWINN’s (Solomon Islands Women in Nius Network) Breakfast Event at the Heritage Park Hotel yesterday.

    He stressed that gender-based violence comes in many forms whether it is physical, emotional, sexual and economic and is rooted in unequal power dynamics, harmful gender norms and systemic inequalities.

    Armstrong said statistics of gender-based violence are staggering given that across the globe, one in three women will experience some form of violence in their lifetime.

    He mentioned that men and boys can also be victims of gender-based violence particularly in cultures where rigid stereotypes create silence and stigma.

    Armstrong said gender-based violence destabilises communities, perpetuating cycles of fear, distrust and trauma.

    “Economically, it costs billions annually in healthcare, lost productivity and legal services. Socially, it diminishes us all by normalising inequality and injustice”

    Moreover, Armstrong said the media plays a vital role in combatting gender-based violence by raising awareness, challenging harmful stereotypes and promoting gender equality.

    “Responsible reporting and advocacy campaigns educate the public, amplify survivors’ voices and foster a culture of accountability and change”

    Armstrong said Australia remains the key partner in Solomon Islands and the only development partner in gender equality efforts.

    He added that over the course of 12 years from 2012 to 2024, Australia has invested 300 million SBD dollars to support gender equality in Solomon Islands through bilateral and regional funding.

    Armstrong said this work reminds us that ending gender-based violence requires all of us; individuals, families, businesses and governments to work together.

    He pointed out that we must also remember that prevention is as important as response.

    “Every time we challenge a sexist joke, every time we stand up for someone who feels unsafe, every time we model healthy respectful relationships, we are contributing to a culture where violence has no place”

    Armstrong said as we gather here today, lets applaud the resilience, dedication and courage of those fighting to end it.

    Asilaua; “we must prove we’re ready for development”

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    BY SAMIE WAIKORI

    AUKI

    Premier of Malaita province, Elijah Asilaua calls on Malaitans to prove themselves to national government and donor partners that they are ready for developments they have been craving for.

    The premier made the call this week appealing to Malaitans both in the province and abroad to unite and contribute whatever they can to develop the province.

    “We have been crying for development in Malaita province for 40 or so years and no tangible development yet seen in the province.

    “For these years, we had talked about major developments in the province as all know, but maybe they will come at their right time.

    “Now, some of them are about to happen. The Bina Harbor Tuna Processing Plant project, Kilu’ufi hospital project, Auki road tar-seal project and the Auki/Bina tar-seal project.

    “Work on some of these projects like the Japanese funded Kilu’ufi hospital project has started and the PRC funded Auki road tar-seal to start next month.

    “Bina Harbor project is also progressing and I hope paper work on the Australian funded Auki/Bina road tar-seal is also progressing,” he said.

    Asilaua emphasized that these are game changing projects for the province that will create job opportunities and boost the economy.

    He added not only that but they will also address some of the issues faced by Malaitans in the country.

    “These are the developments we are crying for. And we must ask ourselves; Are we ready for them? How are we going to work together to achieve these projects?

    “To achieve them, we need to work together as one-Malaitan. If we have negative mindsets on these developments, we must change them to become positive.

    “Our turn is here and we must prove to the country, the national government and development partners that we are ready for development,” he uttered.

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