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Marau pleads not guilty

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The re-elected Member of Parliament for Ugi/Ulawa Constituency William Bradford Marau has pleaded not guilty at the Magistrate Court yesterday.

Prosecution sought an adjournment as the Pre-Trial-Conference (PTC) document is yet to be filed.

Prosecution also told court that since the Court of Appeal sitting will be continuing this month crown is seeking an adjournment for June for the PTC to be conducted.

Court granted the application and adjourned the matter to June 4 for Pre- Trial-Conference (PTC).

Marau is the newly re-elected Member of Parliament for Ugi/ Ulawa Constituency this year.

He is facing one count of conversion in relation to the allegation of misappropriation of $5 million designated for shipping funds in 2016.

On April 27, 2017 constituency report was submitted to National Criminal Investigation Department which they investigate following that particular reported submitted.

Prosecution further alleged from the investigation it was revealed that on January 22, 2016, Solomon Island Government deposited $ 5 million into Ulawa Constituency account with Bank of South Pacific (BSP) for shipping fund.

It was further alleged, on February 17, 2016 the defendant instructed the BSP Bank to transfer the entire sum of said amount $5 million into his own personal account with ANZ Bank.

Prosecution also stated, 65 withdrawals which total to $6,023,326.70 has been made from the defendant personal account.

In addition to that, 10 withdrawals amounting to $4,550,000 deposited into the business account of Aslan Stationaries with ANZ a private company owned by the defendant.

And at the end of 2016 the remaining balance in the defendant personal account was $27,868.87.

Olivia Ratu Manu of Office of Public Prosecution act for the Crown and Jillian Soaika of Rano& Company law firm appears for the defendant.

Kwato’o congratulates Asilaua

Written by
Samie Waikori
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Philip Kwato'o. Photo supplied.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Philip Kwato’o has congratulated Elijah Asilaua on his successful election as the premier of Malaita province.

Mr Kwato’o, who was Asilaua’s contender in Malaita’s premier election made the acknowledgement after the election results were announced at Malaita provincial chamber in Auki yesterday.

“I would like to congratulate my colleague leader, Hon Asilaua on his victory in today’s election as new premier of Malaita province.

“I also thanked the office of the speaker, clerk, their staffs and staffs of Malaita provincial office for allowing democratic process by successfully conducting the election.

“I agree with the outcome of the election process and as leaders I don’t have grudges to Asilaua or colleague leaders of Malaita following the election.

I acknowledge every one of us and look forward to work closely with our government and Malaita provincial assembly to serve the people of Malaita province,” he said.

Asilaua on that note thanked Hon Kwato’o for his ambition and confidence to contest the post with the aim to lead the people and province of Malaita forward.

“I thank my honourable colleague Philip Kwato’o and the members of the assembly for exercising the spirit of democracy,” he said.

Asilaua also thanked the 33 MPAs of Malaita provincial assembly, former MPAs and premiers for rendering their support to build Malaita province.

He said he looked forward to work closely with all MPAs, the provincial administration, all stakeholders in the province and the people of Malaita to drive the province toward its aspirations.

3 men charged with attempted murder

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

Three people were remanded in Magistrate court on Monday this week for attempted murder.

Timothy Sagia, Stanley Norman and Steward Philip Tiva are charged jointly with attempted murder.

The allegations said the incident occurred at Koivo village in Guadalcanal on May 6 this year.

Prior to that incident the three accused had a disagreement with the two victims.

The allegation said that the three suspects drank beer and took a knife and attempted to kill the victims by cutting the victims with the knife.

The two victims were rushed to the hospital and are still admitted at the National Referral Hospital till now.

FIRST SITTING FRIDAY

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BY CAROL-ANNE SULEGA

IN an official announcement yesterday, His Excellency Sir David Vunagi, Governor-General of Solomon Islands, has laid out plans for the commencement of the twelfth Parliament this Friday.

Using powers outlined in the Constitution, Sir David Vunagi has announced that this twelfth Parliament’s first sitting is set to begin at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 17, 2024.

The stated section of the constitution 72(1), outlines the authority and procedures for convening sessions of Parliament. It specifies the Governor-General’s role in designating the time and place for Parliament sessions to commence. This section is a foundational aspect of the Solomon Islands’ constitutional framework, ensuring the orderly functioning of the legislative branch of government.

This declaration marks a crucial step in Solomon Islands’ democratic process, signaling the start of a new parliamentary term. It is an eagerly awaited moment for citizens as they anticipate the beginning of upcoming discussions and decisions shaping the nation’s future.

The twelfth Parliament inherits the task of tackling various challenges, from economic growth to social welfare, against a backdrop of global changes. The convening of Parliament provides a vital opportunity for elected officials to come together, debate, and create laws reflecting the needs of Solomon Islanders.

As the nation gears up for the beginning of a series of sittings, all eyes turn to Honiara, where Parliament members will gather to begin their legislative work. The Parliament Building, with its rich history, will once again serve as the place where the people’s voices are mandated to be heard through their elected representatives.

Under the guidance of Sir David Vunagi, the twelfth Parliament of Solomon Islands is ready to embark on its journey, committed to serving the nation with honesty and dedication.

Western province women advocate for TSM to increase Female representation in Parliament

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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Mrs Laheni Sasabule.

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

WARD 15 President for West New Georgia and Vonavona Laheni Sasabule is saying Government should consider and implement the Temporary Special Measures to allow women in decision-making.

Mrs Sasabule said in a society where cultural norms and attitudes often hinder women’s political participation TSM is a way forward for women.

She said women in Western province supported the idea for TSM.

“We are hoping that TSM be implemented in this year’s election unfortunately no, so we are calling on the new government to consider and implement the idea”, Mrs Sasabule said.

She said for women to enter into parliament like the male candidates it is difficult as there were too many challenges, including cultural norms and pressure from husbands and community leaders on women to support men.

However, she remains determined to create opportunities for women in politics.

Sasabule emphasizes the importance of the Temporary Special Measures (TSM) as a means to empower women and increase their representation in parliament. Through TSM, women candidates are provided with dedicated spaces in the National General Election, offering them a fair chance to compete for parliamentary seats.

She firmly believes that the implementation of TSM will pave the way for a brighter future, where women have equal opportunities to participate in decision-making processes at the highest levels of governance.

With Sasabule’s support for TSM and her commitment to promoting women’s rights, she symbolizes the potential for positive change in advancing gender equality in politics.

VOX POP with MAVIS N PODOKOLO

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Mavis Podokolo
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With the upcoming joint election just around the corner, excitement and anticipation fill the air as candidates gear up to vie for both National and provincial seats. In the rural areas, discussions abound about the qualities desired in their future leaders, those who will truly represent their voices. In this piece, we dig up sentiments of the people of Western Province, as they express their hopes and aspirations for the forthcoming election. Let’s listen to their voices.

Elisa Teko
Ranogga, Western province.

For a long time, we really wanted a woman leader who could speak for us, represent us, and make rules that help women in rural areas. But every time there’s an election, our hope fades away. We were hoping to have a woman candidate in the upcoming election, but sadly, there isn’t any woman contesting in my area, Ranogga and Simbo constituency.

Mary L
Gizo, Western Province

We’ve been wanting a woman leader for a while now. We want her to speak up for us, represent us, and make fair rules for women in rural areas. But every time there’s an election, our hope goes down. We were hoping to have a woman candidate in the next election, but sadly, there isn’t any woman running in my area, the Ranogga and Simbo constituency.

Kaba Pitu
Gizo, Western Province

I want both men and women to represent us in parliament. It’s time for a change. We need leaders who really understand what it means to be a Member of Parliament, not just those who show up during elections and hand out things like roofing irons and solar lights.

Miriam S
Noro, Western Province

I want a leader who listens to people and talks to communities when they visit their areas. They should have good plans for helping the community that can last a long time. Also, they should find ways to help young people get jobs because the number of unemployed young people is going up in the Solomon Islands.

Jessica Darlcy
Shortland, Western Province

As a young person who sells betel nut and earn an income to me going each day I see a need of erecting a market here in Gizo Western Province. This new market should be big enough for lots of vendors like me. Many of us, including women, men, and young people, don’t have regular jobs. But if we have a good market,we can sell our local products and make a living.Even the newly upgraded Gizo market cannot accommodate all vendors because number of vendors increases in every two weeks as per my observation. 

Market manageress calls for new government’s action

Written by
Mavis Podokolo
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Market Manageress for Munda Market in Western Province Florence Rove.

BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO  

The Market Manageress for Munda Market in Western Province Florence Rove, has raised concerns that she hopes the new government will address.

Rove highlighted that while Munda Market at Lambete has seen significant improvements, there are still crucial upgrades needed. One pressing issue is the shortage of market space to accommodate the increasing number of vendors.

“We often face a shortage of market tables, especially on Fridays when vendors flock to sell their products. We need additional tables and another market facility to cater to our vendors,” Rove explained.

Another essential requirement, according to Rove, is the restoration of the water supply. Although boreholes are available, one needs to be strengthened to ensure adequate water collection.

Lambete Market, Munda.

“In the past, we had a functional water supply, but it’s no longer operational, possibly due to damaged pipes. Nowadays, we rely on boreholes and rainwater. Restoring our water supply is crucial because water is life,” she emphasized.

Rove also expressed her support for increased female representation in Parliament, believing that women leaders would prioritize and address these needs proactively.

“I support women entering politics in this year’s election. Women understand the basic priority needs, and I believe a woman leader would recognize and address them. When women participate in decision-making, they advocate not only for themselves but for the entire community and nation,” Rove concluded.

Ward president calls for gov’t action on key issues

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Mavis Podokolo
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Mrs Laheni Sasabule.

BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO

Mrs. Laheni Sasabule, the Ward President for Lambete to Baeroko (Ward 15) in the West New Georgia and Vonavona constituency, has brought forward pressing concerns for the attention of the new government.

She emphasizes the urgent need to address mental health disorders and promote inclusive education.

In an exclusive interview with, Mrs. Laheni Sasabule, representing Ward 15 in West New Georgia and Vonavona constituency, highlighted two critical issues plaguing her community, mental health disorders and inclusive education.

As a woman leader and mother, Sasabule expressed alarm over the rising incidence of mental health disorders among youth in rural areas, attributing much of it to the escalating abuse of illegal drugs.

She stressed that this not only affects individual well-being but also destabilizes families and communities.

Sasabule urged the government to collaborate with local leaders to establish a dedicated rehabilitation center to address this growing crisis.

Furthermore, Sasabule emphasized the importance of inclusive education, noting that many families struggle to afford schooling for their children due to financial constraints.

She appealed to the new government to devise strategies that would ensure equal access to education for all children, regardless of their economic circumstances.

Sasabule’s call to action underscores the need for concerted efforts to safeguard mental health and promote educational equity in Lambete to Baeroko and beyond.

Premier Lawrence Hayward unveils ministerial lineup for Isabel Province

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Premier Hayword

BY NED GAGAHE

In a significant move, newly sworn-in Premier of Isabel Province Lawrence Hayward wasted no time in revealing his ministerial team.

Premier Hayward made the announcement shortly after swearing into office yesterday, outlining the key portfolios and their respective holders.

Eddie Kopala, Speaker of Isabel Provincial Assembly revealed to Island Sun yesterday that Premier Hayward himself assumes the role as Premier and Minister for Administration, Planning, Lands, Environment, and Forestry.

According to Kopala, Deputy Premier Tony Vahia, the MPA for Japuana ward is the Minister for Community Affairs.

The executive lineup are:

  1. Sam Watson – Minister of Finance & Treasury.
  2. Paul Sogedi – Minister of Business & Tourism.
  3. Augustine Hebala – Minister of Education.
  4. Nathaniel Togamae – Minister of Agriculture & Fisheries.
  5. Ian Mason – Minister of Health & Medical Services.
  6. James Leo – Minister of Works, Communication, and Transport.

Meanwhile, the announcement has set the stage for the implementation of Premier Hayward’s vision for Isabel Province, with each minister tasked with specific responsibilities aimed at fostering growth and development across various sectors.

Women church leaders urge new gov’t to address church needs

Written by
Mavis Podokolo
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Mrs Laheni Sasabule.

BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO

Mrs Laheni Sasabule, the Ward President for West New Georgia and Vonavona constituency, alongside her role as a church leader overseeing the Girls Brigade admin office (GB Desk), has called upon the new government to prioritize the needs raised by churches.

Mrs Sasabule emphasized that churches across the region, including Lambete to Baeroko, have pressing needs that require government support.

She highlighted the history of unfulfilled promises despite previous appeals for assistance.

According to Mrs. Sasabule, it is crucial for the government to genuinely support and assist churches, particularly in funding and facilitating programs aimed at youth development.

The call underscores the importance of collaboration between religious institutions and the government to address community needs effectively.

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