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RFC24 Integrity Under Scrutiny

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RFC24 action at DC Park-PHOTO ELTON LONARATHA JNR.

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

THE Renbel Football Championship 2024 (RFC24) has been rocked by allegations of match-fixing following a contentious match between Sipa FC and Elite FC, leaving Pool A teams divided and the tournament’s integrity under scrutiny.

Last week, Sipa FC secured a decisive 6-1 victory over Elite FC, clinching their spot in the quarterfinals. This unexpected outcome raised eyebrows among fellow contenders Ngutuanga FC and Tauloto FC, who were also vying for advancement. Ngutuanga FC, in particular, voiced suspicions that the match may have been fixed, alleging that Sipa FC intentionally threw the game to secure their own qualification.

“We would never accept such a give-away win and a cheap flight to the knockout stage,” remarked Morris Maitaki, Manager of Ngutuanga FC, expressing dismay over the result. “Where is the transparency we always talk about in sports development?”

Tensions escalated further when Tauloto FC’s Coach, Mike Tuiakihenua, echoed calls for an investigation by the RFC24 Local Organizing Committee (LOC) into the match’s circumstances before proceeding with the quarterfinal fixtures.

In response to the allegations, Sipa FC’s Team Manager, Jimmy Ma’anumoana, vehemently denied any wrongdoing, emphasizing their rigorous preparation and determination to win. “We knew that the match was crucial for us,” Ma’anumoana clarified. “We prepared meticulously and made strategic adjustments to secure the victory. There was no prior communication with Elite FC regarding the match outcome.”

Ma’anumoana urged the involved parties to focus on the upcoming quarterfinals, dismissing the accusations as baseless. “It’s time to put this matter to rest and concentrate on our next challenge,” he insisted.

Despite the controversy swirling around Pool A, the RFC24 LOC confirmed that the quarterfinal fixtures are set and that remaining matches from both Pool A and Pool B will not proceed, as they would not impact the final standings. The committee expressed gratitude to all participating teams for their commitment and contributions to this year’s championship.

“In appreciation of your dedication, we look forward to your continued participation in future tournaments,” the RFC24 LOC stated in a release, seeking to move past the recent turmoil.

As the RFC24 moves forward, the focus now shifts to the quarterfinals, with Sipa FC set to face new challenges amid lingering doubts and calls for greater transparency in sports governance. The aftermath of this controversy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fair play and integrity in competitive sports, urging stakeholders to uphold these principles to preserve the spirit of the game.

In conclusion, while Sipa FC celebrates their qualification and prepares for the quarterfinals, questions raised by Ngutuanga FC and others underscore the need for thorough investigation and vigilance in ensuring a level playing field in future tournaments.

OLYMPIC DEBUT FOR MILLER

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Australian-based swimmer, 16-year-old Isabella Rose Miller. Photo supplied.

… 16-Year-Old Phenom Set to Make Waves in Paris

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

ISABELLA Rosa Miller, a 16-year-old swimmer, is set to make history as the lone female athlete representing the Solomon Islands at the Paris Summer Olympic 2024. Hailing from Malaita and Makira and currently residing in Australia, Miller was one of three athletes who represented the Solomon Islands at the Oceania Swimming Championships held at the Gold Coast Aquatic Center in Queensland, Australia, in April. Her outstanding performance at the Championships secured her a spot at the Paris Olympics.

Miller currently lives with her family in Australia, where she is undergoing rigorous preparations to ensure she performs well on the global stage for the first time in her career. She will compete in the 50-meter freestyle event, accompanied by her Swimming Head Coach, Stance Sanga.

In an interview with SunSPORTS, the soon-to-be 17-year-old expressed her excitement and honor in representing the Solomon Islands at the Olympics. “It will be fun, and I want to try my best when representing the country at the event,” she said. Despite the short notice, Miller’s training regimen includes twice-daily swim sessions and gym workouts. She acknowledged the challenges but remains grateful for the opportunity and the support she has received from her fans, coaches, and family.

As she prepares for this significant milestone in her swimming career, Miller is eager to gain valuable experience at the Olympic stage. She is aware of the high level of training her fellow competitors have undergone and is looking forward to the challenge. “I’m aware that all the swimming athletes competing at the Olympics are well-trained, and it will be interesting to find out and gain a lot of experience when competing,” she told SunSPORTS.

Miller will join the Team Solomon delegation in Brisbane before heading to Paris. Coach Sanga, who is also a part of the Team Solomon delegation, is set to depart for Paris today. “I will be traveling with representatives from the National Olympic Committee of Solomon Islands (NOCSI), Chef De Mission, and other teams for the Olympics. Miller and I will represent SISF in Paris,” Sanga told SunSPORTS.

World Aquatics Communication Manager Torin Koos confirmed Miller’s participation among the 69 Oceania athletes competing at the Paris Olympics. He highlighted the extensive participation, with 854 athletes (463 male and 391 female) from 187 countries, including the Individual Neutral Athletes and the IOC Refugee Olympic Team. “Each country could send at least two athletes to Paris through their NOC, demonstrating swimming’s universal appeal and inclusivity,” Koos noted.

Additionally, Koos revealed that five countries – Dominica, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Vanuatu – will make their Olympic swimming debuts at the Paris 2024 Games. The swimming competition, hosted at Europe’s largest indoor venue, the Paris La Defense Arena, will commence on July 27 and span nine days, concluding on August 4, featuring 35 swimming medal events.

The Team Solomon delegation is set to depart today from various locations, including Honiara, Brisbane, Dubai, Geneva, and Paris. This marks the beginning of their Olympic journey, with high hopes and expectations resting on their shoulders.

Miller’s journey to the Olympics is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and the unwavering support from her family and coaches.

As she steps onto the global stage, she carries with her the hopes and pride of the Solomon Islands.

Her participation not only highlights her personal achievements but also brings attention to the potential of athletes from the Solomon Islands in the international sports arena.

Suluka’s reflection on his life at sea

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    Captain Samuel Suluta

    BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

    Samuel Suluka started working in the shipping industry in 1979 after completing his maritime studies at the Marine Technical Institute now Solomon Islands National University.

    To build his career Mr Suluka made his way up in the shipping industry as a qualified seaman with the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Patrol Boat Auki.

    “After I ended my work with the RSIPF Marine Unit I joined other shipping companies,’’ said Captain Suluka from Lau Baelelea, Malaita province.

    The father of five who will turn 70 years old in July this year 2024 then later travelled to Fiji in 2024 to further his maritime study before returning to the Solomon Islands.

    “I studied here at the Solomon Islands Marine Technical Institute now SINU Marine School and then I went to further my studies at the Fiji Maritime College Academy for a year. I went to Fiji in 2014 for class three,’’ said Captain Suluka.

    Before he resigned from the shipping industry this year, experienced Suluka worked with a pre-eminent shipping and logistics company.

    “I just finished working from Silent World. I worked for six years. I just came down from the ship in May this year 2024 due to some family matters,’’ he said.

    While Mr Suluka enjoyed his life at sea as a captain he also faced countless challenges and risks as a seaman.

    “Yeah, as a seaman and especially Captain there’s a lot of challenges along the way which include decision making. The decision you make must be safe for everyone. Rough seas in open waters, sleepless nights, and many more. But you have to cope,’’ he said as he reflected.

    Amongst the challenges Captain Suluka worries Suluka was leaving his family back at home and spending months at sea.

    “You know as a husband you have to think about your family when spending weeks traveling. You might know what is going on with your children, those are one of the big challenges we seafarers usually face, especially when there is no communication,’’ he said.

    However, despite the challenges, Mr Suluka’s endeavoring to ensure his work is more conducive, he has to.

    “I have to because I come through since my early days as a seafarer working with many shipping companies till, I get married. And I also told my wife to understand my work when we are still yet in a relationship. So, she accepted it.

    Captain Suluka started his seafaring career after completing his qualification at the age of 26 years old.

    “Sometimes when I traveled back, I felt sorry since some of us seafarers have already gone and some of us are still alive today,’’ he said.

    After withdrawing as a captain, Mr Suluka has now concentrated on household work with his family.

    A relief for Susan and Rose

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      Mrs Rose Sila.

      BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

      Susan Paeni and Rose Sila, local farmers from the GIPPOL area in Guadalcanal, reside in the mountains and have been selling their produce at the Honiara Central Market to provide for their families.

      They, like other vendors, used to suffer the sun and rain while selling their products before the new Honiara Central Market extension building was built.

      The inauguration of the new Honiara Central Market extension this week brought immense relief to Paeni, aged 48, and Sila, aged 42, who are both hardworking mothers. Before the construction of this extension, they encountered numerous difficulties.

      “We used to display our goods on cement and seek shelter under umbrellas. In our efforts to provide for our families, we endured the scorching sun and heavy rain. This was a familiar struggle for us,’’ Mrs. Paeni recalled.

      Susan Paeni

      Mrs. Paeni expressed her gratitude for the extension of the selling area, as it has eased the challenges of not being able to sell products or selling them late due to limited space.

      “With the new space, I can now comfortably sell my vegetables, fruits, and root crops in a more favorable environment without having to stand or sit under umbrellas from the sun for long hours,’’ she said.

      Mrs. Sila, a 45-year-old mother of six, travels back home every day after finishing her sales. She lives in the mountains and has two children who are currently in school. She expressed her happiness about completing the extension project.

      “It was a relief for all local rural women farmers in Guadalcanal,’’ 45-year-old Sila told Island Sun in an exclusive interview.

      Mrs. Sila, who usually sells bananas, cucumbers, and pawpaw, resides at Gold Ridge and has to wake up early in the morning to prepare her produce before heading to the Honiara Central Market.

      While traveling downtown in the truck, Mrs. Sila pondered whether they would arrive on time for her to set up her products for the day’s sale. She also wondered where she would be able to sell her products.

      “These questions often cross my mind, especially when we are required to sell outside due to limited space,’’ she said.

      Mrs. Sila, a 45-year-old mother supporting her five children who are currently attending school, must ensure that all her products for the day are sold out.

      The mother of five expressed the difficulty of enduring the scorching sun and spending long hours under an umbrella during rainy days.

      The new Honiara Central Market extension.

      “We have often had to endure both the rain and the sun due to our struggle to meet our children’s school fees. Despite the numerous challenges, I continue to make sacrifices to provide for my family and ensure my children receive the necessary support for their education.

      “I have to accept the situation. When it rains, we must find shelter, and even under the hot sun, we have to locate shade, possibly in the nearby stores. The announcement of the market extension plans generated excitement, especially among us, the farmers. Many of us, particularly the farmers, are thankful to those responsible for this development. In gratitude, I would like to say thank you,” Mrs. Sila echoed.

      Ngossi ward sports day triumphs

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      Champions of the Ngossi Ward Independence Day seven-aside soccer competition recieving their trophy from Honorable Rex Konofilia on Thursday at White River School field. Photo supplied.

      BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

      THE Ngossi Ward Independence Sports Day concluded successfully this week with a prize presentation at White River School. The event, which began over the weekend, saw teams from the surrounding Ngossi Ward community competing in 3×3 Basketball and seven-a-side soccer.

      This initiative, spearheaded by Ward Councilor and Chairman of the HCC Works Division, Honorable Rex Konofilia, aims to unite West Honiara communities and uncover local sporting talent.

      The seven-a-side soccer tournament commenced on Saturday and culminated in Thursday’s prize presentation. The 3×3 Basketball competition was a one-day event held on Sunday, with its presentation taking place the same day.

      Honorable Rex Konofilia, during the prize presentation for the seven-a-side soccer winners, celebrated the success of the six-day Ngossi Ward Independence tournament.

      “This event is not about its prizes but about unifying our people, the people of Ngossi Ward. We must develop in our youths a sense of belonging, responsibility, and ownership of our beloved Ngossi Ward. Through unity, we can confront and overcome the pressing issues and challenges we face in our daily lives within our communities, and that is what should be captured through our participation in this tournament,” Konofilia stated.

      Konofilia also expressed gratitude to Bulk Shop for supporting the event with trophies, emphasizing the community’s appreciation and hopes for ongoing support.

      “Thank you to all participating teams and the community of White River for being the host. Special appreciation goes to the supporters for your tireless efforts in supporting our teams and making this tournament a success. God bless our beloved Ngossi Ward. Our games, our ward, one people,” he concluded.

      The Ngossi Ward Independence Sports Day not only highlighted local sporting talents but also fostered a sense of unity and community spirit among the participants and residents.

      Meanwhile, the order of presentation for the two sports delivered at the event is as follows:

      (Seven-aside Soccer)

      1st Valbros Heights

      2nd Ngossi

      3rd Central White river

      4th 7-Up

      (3X3 Basketball)

      1st Ngossi Knightz DP

      2nd RRR Snakes

      3rd Whiteriver Rukiez

      4th Ngossi Nightz

      Mars United FC vows to reclaim champions title

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      BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

      FORMER Honiara Football Association (HFA) champions, Mars United FC, have pledged to return stronger in the upcoming season, set to kick off next month, with the aim of reclaiming their championship title.

      Coach Freddie Kini expressed his optimism to SunSPORTS after Mars United FC’s 2-1 defeat to Henderson Eels FC in the grand final of the HFA 2023/24 season, held earlier this week at Lawson Tama Stadium. Despite the setback, Kini remains confident about the team’s prospects in the new season.

      “It was a good game, but unfortunately, we didn’t execute our game plan well and got defeated by our opponents,” Kini remarked. “We had chances to win the match, but the boys failed to capitalize on key opportunities. However, I’m happy with their hard work and performance.”

      Coach Kini also extended his congratulations to Henderson Eels FC for winning their first HFA title. “Henderson Eels FC has good players and were the better side during the grand final match. Despite our defeat, we have taken many positives from the game, which will serve as valuable lessons as we prepare for the new season,” he said.

      Looking ahead, Kini emphasized the need for Mars United FC to step up their preparations for the new season. “We will continue to work towards the new season to reclaim our title. There is a lot of work to do, but I am confident the team will be ready before the season begins,” he assured.

      While the team passed the title to Henderson Eels FC, Coach Kini thanked the fans and supporters for their unwavering support. “We will not give up and will continue to strive to retain the champions tag this season,” he added.

      Mars United FC’s commitment to bouncing back stronger highlights their determination to regain their status as champions in the upcoming HFA season.

      A boxing hero’s journey cut short by tragedy

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      Solomon Islands first profesional boxer, late Lemuel Silisia.Photo supplied.

      BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

      THE boxing communities in both Honiara and Australia are mourning the loss of Lemuel Silisia, the Solomon Islands’ first professional boxer, who passed away days after sustaining head injuries in a bout against Adam “The Flash Flood” on Saturday night at the Tamworth Clash of the Titans, held at the Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Center (TRECC).

      Silisia, 27, who had been living and working in Australia since 2021, fought for the World Boxing Foundation Australasian Super Lightweight Title in front of approximately 1,000 fans. Known as “The Destroyer,” Silisia faced a tough match and was defeated by Adam Flash via a unanimous points decision, with all three judges scoring the bout 77-74 in favor of Flash. Despite a third-round knockdown, Flash emerged victorious.

      After the fight, Silisia was reported to be in critical condition at a Sydney hospital. On Sunday, his family members and coach, Jamie Carrol, shared that he was fighting for his life. Unfortunately, Silisia was declared medically dead on Wednesday evening after failing two brain tests, following three days on life support. He was surrounded by family members, fans, and followers during his final moments.

      In a heartfelt online tribute, Silisia’s brother, Colson, confirmed the tragic news. “It is with deep sorrow that I share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our dear son, brother, friend, and father-to-be, Lemuel Silisia. After failing two brain tests, Lemuel was declared medically dead yesterday, July 9th (Wednesday SI Time). However, his brave heart continued to fight until it eventually ceased beating today at 5:24 PM, when he was called to be with the Lord Jesus Christ,” read Colson’s post.

      Colson also mentioned that arrangements for the repatriation of Silisia’s body had begun, and he appealed for prayers to ensure a swift and smooth process to bring Silisia’s body back to the Solomon Islands for his final resting place.

      Silisia’s coach, Jamie Carrol, expressed his deep sorrow, stating that the One2boxing Westside community in Tamworth is devastated. “He was a hero to all, including me. I miss him so much,” Carrol said. In an online tribute, Carrol shared his feelings, saying he had lost his best mate. “He was my idol and anyone who knows me knows Lems and how much he meant to me. Not for what he could do as a boxer, but for what he stood for as a human being. He had the most beautiful soul and always put others before him. Rest in peace, Brother. I love you,” Carrol posted.

      A memorial service for Silisia will be held at Tamworth Baptist Church on the corner of Duri and Hiluvue Road tomorrow, with One2boxing members attending in full O2B gear. Additionally, One2boxing Westside will host a tribute and memorial prayer service at Papa Luigi’s Conference Center on Friday, August 2nd. “This will be a day for the O2B family to join with Lem’s family and friends, the boxing community, and the wider Tamworth Community to remember and pay respect to our beloved Lemuel,” reads a statement from One2boxing Westside.

      The New South Wales (NSW) Boxing League also paid tribute to Silisia, honoring his contributions to the sport and his legacy.

      Miss SICAN aims to empower women in climate change decision-making

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      Miss SICAN Azarinnah Zolela Stevens.Photo supplied.

      BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

      Ms Azarinnah Zolela Stevens will play a key role in highlighting the pivotal role of young women and girls in addressing the climate crisis.

      Representing the Solomon Islands Climate Action Network (SICAN) at this year’s 2024 Miss Solomon Islands Pageant, her goal as a candidate is to empower young women and girls to engage in climate change decision-making processes.

      “The key message that I want to bring to our government is to give opportunities for women and to let more women into parliament and to participate in climate spaces,” she told the local media at the introduction which took place during a press conference hosted at the Pacific Crown Hotel, the sponsor for the 2024 MSIP.

      Hailing from the beautiful Western Province Ms Zolela Stevens acknowledged the differences that hinder young girls and women from their full participation and contribution.

      “When more women are in this space there is gender equality and when there is gender equality, we have ideas from various voices. So, this is my call to the government to give women opportunities to be in parliament because women’s voices are important too,” she said.

      “I call on young girls to participate in climate change activities in the Solomon Islands. Climate change is real. Every day we have extreme temperatures and sea level rise that are affected directly and indirectly by climate change. And I want to call out to young girls -please raise your voices. advocating climate change is what I am here for,’’ said Zolela Stevens.

      Miss SICAN’s decision to participate in MSIP 2024 stems from her commitment to advocate and raise awareness on the impacts of climate change on women and girls in the Solomon Islands according to SICAN’s Official Facebook page.  

      She sees Miss Solomon Islands Pageant 2024 as an opportunity to stand in solidarity with women of all ages, advocating for the value of women and to advance the role of women in contributing towards the sustainable development of the Solomon Islands.

      Disability association gets new hilux from Australia

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      BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

      The Disability People Association Solomon Islands (DPASI) has received a new two-cabin Toyota Hilux from Australian Aid through the Australian High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands.

      The handover took place at the Development Service Exchange (DSE) on yesterday at New Chinatown.

      Speaking at the handover DPASI Vice-President Anika Kingmele said the association continues to face many challenges in its effort to run its operations and this donation is timely for the association.

      She said the new vehicle will enable staff to smoothly run operations of the office among other transportation needs of the association.

      “This timely donation is a significant contribution towards the efficient operations of the office of DPASI. It will allow DPASI to reach out to other areas out of Honiara boundaries in its effort to continue to advocate and implement its programmes and activities,” said Anika Kingmele.

      She believes the new vehicle will propel DPASI towards the realisation of its vision for people with disabilities.

      “I, on behalf of the DPASI Board, the Chief Executive Officer, staff, and members of DPASI profusely thank the people and the Government of Australia through the different implementing agencies for the past, present, and future support to the association,” she said.

      “Your partnership has been essential to our operations; your unwavering commitment and your vision for a better Solomon Islands through the work of DPASI. We appreciate and value very much your loyalty and trust and we look forward to continuing this journey for the betterment of our people,” said the DPASI Vice-President.

      The affiliate member representatives of DPASI at the handing over include Disability Women Empowerment Association, the Solomon Islands Deaf Association, the Blind Visual Impairment of Solomon Islands, and the psychosocial group.

      Case of 51-yo man charged with rape of 5-yo girl returns to court July 25

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      BY ROMINAH FAKA

      The case against a 51-year-old man who allegedly raped a five-year-old girl will come back to court on July 25 for plea and possible committal hearing.

      Prosecution on Thursday this week, made an application in court under section 201 of the Criminal Procedural Code (CPC) to substitute the initial charge of sexual intercourse to rape charge against the accused.

      The presiding Deputy Chief Magistrate Ricky Iomea granted the substituted charge.

      Defence sought 14 days adjournment to look through the substituted charge and obtain instructions from the accused for plea.

      The accused who name cannot be named to protect the allege victim’s identity is charged with one count of rape on a child under age of 15.

      The victim in this case is a five-year-old girl.

      The allegation said on May 17, 2024 around 4.30pm the victim was playing outside their house at Burn Creek, east Honiara.

      While she was playing the suspect called her to go to him in his house.

      The suspect was their close neighbour and while calling the victim he also told her that he would give her a packet of twisties.

      The victim then went to the suspect and he took her into his house.

      It was further alleged the suspect removed his clothes and the victim’s clothes and did sexual actions on the child.

      It was alleged that during the course of sexual activity, the victim’s mother who was in their house realised that her daughter was missing so she went out looking for her.

      She called the victim but she did not answered. She then came to the place where the victim was playing but she was not there so she walked towards the suspect’s house which was beside the place her daughter was playing.

      As she was approached the house of the suspect, she heard a noise inside the house so she peeped through a window and saw the suspect half naked and her daughter standing naked in front of him.

      The mother was angry and shouted saying “[Suspect] what have you done to my daughter, my husband and I we always help you and your family, why did you do such thing to my daughter”.

      The victim’s mother walked into the house and took the victim outside and walked away.

      Later the mother took the victim to one of their relatives and asked her daughter what the suspect did to her and the victim told her mother.

      On May 20 the victim was assisted by her mother to Sexual Assault Squad and reported the matter to the police.

      The suspect escaped to an unknown location, but was later located by police on June 4 at White River and was formally arrested.

      Herrick Lautola appears for crown and Delilah Kukura appears for suspect.

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