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Fake scholarship case faces trial

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case against a man accused of defrauding students of money with the false promise of securing them government scholarships will go to trial from November 18-22.

Donald Keso is charged with three counts of obtaining money by false pretence.

He had pleaded not guilty.

Yesterday the matter was mentioned before Principal Magistrate Elma Veenah Rizzu Hilly for interim-mention.

Crown confirmed to the court that they have no issue regarding the trial.

Defence told court the accused was returning from his home province after going home to vote in the national general elections.

Court reinstated the original court bail for Keso yesterday.

Court suspended the matter for June 4 for another interim-mention; and Keso is excused from appearing in court until November 12 for the final interim-mention.

Prosecution alleged that accused Keso obtaining money from students with a fake promise for Solomon Islands Government (SIG) Scholarship awards.

It was further alleged that on different dates in March and April 2022, Keso allegedly lied to the victims that he was working as an agent for the National Training Unit (NTU).

He also promised these victims that if they produced their required documents and gave him sum of $1,000, he would place their names on the Solomon Islands Government scholarship (SIG).

Upon hearing the promises, two of the victims gave Keso $1000 each while one allegedly gave Keso $2,000 for himself and his sister.

Keso then told the victims that he would call them to collect their offer letter when their names were listed for the scholarships.

The victim waited in vain for a response from Keso but nothing happened.

One of the victims then went to the NTU office and enquired if a person by the name of Donald Keso worked at SITESA and in response, a receptionist allegedly told him that a senior female staff member that Donald Keso used to work there but had resigned.

The victims were students of the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) at that time of the offence.

Few months later nothing happened to the victims regarding the scholarship as promised by the accused Keso.

Prosecutions alleged that after Keso took the money from the victims, he never informed the victims about their placements for the SIG Scholarship and was only sighted again at a bus stop in Honiara on February 18, 2023.

Keso was later arrested by the police after the three victims lodged their complains on February 18, 2023.

Steward Tonowane of ODPP act for State and Emy Rusi of PSO represent the accused Donald Keso.

GNUT FINISHES 100 -DAY PLAN

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Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT). Photo credit - OUR PARTY.

Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) coalition 100 Day policy draft completed

BY CAROL-ANNE SULEGA

The Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) coalition has achieved a significant milestone by finalizing its draft-form inaugural 100-Day policy framework.

This crucial document is now set for presentation to both the Caucus and Cabinet for further deliberation and approval.

This was confirmed to Island Sun on Monday this week by the Secretary of the major party within the current coalition.

This framework represents a collaborative effort among the three constituent ruling parties to delineate key policy objectives.

Comprised of representatives from the People First Party, Kadere Party, and OUR Party, officials have diligently assembled a comprehensive framework that will guide the GNUT coalition’s endeavours during its initial 100 days in office.

Encompassing a spectrum of critical sectors including health, education, agriculture, finance, fisheries, and infrastructure, this framework aims to prioritize actionable and achievable initiatives for the nation’s advancement.

The policy aims at emphasizing feasibility and practicality within the designated timeframe, GNUT officials are dedicated to ensuring the framework’s viability.

The coalition remains unwavering in its commitment to effecting efficient policy implementation in pursuit of national unity, transformative progress, economic empowerment, rural development, and sustained peace.

ASAF Academy Feminine Welcomes Ileen Peqi

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ASAF Academy Feminine welcome Peqi upon arrival in New Caledonia. Photo supplied.

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

The Champions of the first edition of the Oceania Women’s Champions League, New Caledonia, ASAF Academy Feminine, received their new inclusion, the Solomon Islands national women’s team captain, Ileen Peqi.

A statement from ASAF Academy Feminine welcomes Peqi while looking forward to her contribution to the team this season.

“We are proud to recruit the captain of the Solomon Islands national team and Koloale Women’s Football Team, Ileen Peqi, for the 2024 season.

“Hoping that this experience will create future opportunities for female footballers in Oceania.

 “Welcome to Ileen Peqi,” the team statement reads.

The statement further revealed that this marks a historic moment for women’s football in both countries and likely in Oceania.

“This player will bring her experience to the team during the championship,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, the team beat Ne Drehu/DAC 1-0 in its first Championship match on Saturday.

USOTASI  eyes debut at DC Park Rugby 7s

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USOTASI Rugby Team Manager Carlwyn Tengemoana.

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

NEWLY introduced Rugby Club USOTASI Rugby team is gearing up for the upcoming DC Park Rugby Sevens -Solbrew Series set for next month at DC Park in East Honiara.

Team Manager Carlwyn Tengemoana told SunSPORTS that it’s a new team established for the DC Park rugby 7s tournament.

Tengemoana also calls on interested rugby 7s players to join the team because allowance will be provided for the players.

“The team will be competing in the Men’s Open Division, so the team is aiming for a total of 12 players.

“Any interested player is free to submit his name to join the team.

“For the start, each player will receive an allowance of $500.00 each,” he said.

Meanwhile, the DC Park Rugby Sevens – Solbrew Series is scheduled for Friday 14th to Sunday 16th of June 2024.

The three-day rugby 7s tourney is sponsored by DJ Graphics Ltd, Unisound Enterprises, and Solomon Breweries Company and competition will be delivered for Men’s and Women’s Opens, Youth Boys, and Social Men’s teams.

“The four divisions will accommodate a total of 30 teams, 56 matches, and 450 participants.

Registration is currently open and teams wishing to participate may call 7412184 or email [email protected].

The total number of competitive participants is expected to be exactly 450 over the three-day event.

The registration fee for the Men’s division is $2,000, while the registration fee for all other divisions is $1,500.

PREPARATION STARTS TODAY

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Coach Eddie Marahare-Photo credit - ELTON LONARATHA JNR.

… 3 Caretaker Coaches to Prepare National Team Ahead of OFC Men’s Nations Cup 2024

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

NATIONAL U23 Head Coach Eddie Marahare will be in charge of the senior Men’s national team in replacement of Spaniard Felipe Vega-Arango in preparation for the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Men’s Nations Cup 2024 in Vanuatu next month.

While the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) is yet to recruit its qualified coach to look after the Men’s national team, the Telekom Super League (TSL), Kossa FC head coach and the man who helped former TSL Champions, Henderson Eels FC make their debut at the Oceania Champions League back in 2019, will be leading the team preparation with the support of fellow caretaker Assistant Coaches, Batram Suri and Stanley Waita.

SIFF confirmed the appointment of Marahare while also revealing the senior Men’s national team training squad for the tournament set to run from the 15th to the 30th of June.

“The team will be guided by three caretaker coaches while waiting for the federation to review the list of potential national head coaches who are being shortlisted to lead the national Men’s team,” SIFF confirmed.

SIFF further urged the players who were called up to attend the team’s first session today at SIFF Academy, at KGVI.

“The Solomon Islands National Men’s team management has issued a call for all players currently in the country to attend training at the SIFF Academy at 9:00 am tomorrow, Tuesday 7th May.

“The management has also released a provisional team list of 43 players, including overseas-based players.

“However, the management is also aware that players from the Telekom S-League Champions, Solomon Warriors, will be out of the country for the OFC Men’s Champions League, as well as those who are playing abroad.

“Therefore, only those who are in the capital are encouraged to meet this week,” SIFF confirmed.

Meanwhile, the Oceania Men’s Nations Cup 2024 will be hosted in Vanuatu at VFF Fresh Water Stadium and Luganville Soccer City Stadium, with eight teams confirmed to participate.

Participating teams are Fiji, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tahiti, Vanuatu and Samoa.

Host Nation Vanuatu has been drawn in Group A and will play all its Group matches in Port Vila against New Zealand, Solomon Islands, and New Caledonia.

Group B based in Luganville on the island of Santo, will feature Papua New Guinea, Tahiti, Fiji, and Samoa.

The Group A winner will face the Group B runner-up with the Group B winner to play the Group A runner-up in the semi-finals.

Luganville’s Soccer City Stadium will host one semi-final with VFF Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila to host the other semi-final and the final.

The Solomon Islands will play its first match against host Vanuatu on 15th June at VFF Fresh Water Stadium, at 3:00 PM.

The national team training squad is as follows:

Squad: Philip Mango, Timothy Maerasia, Junior Petua, Harold Nauania, Micheal Laulae, David Supa, Junior David, Loea Mani, Javin Wae, Steven Koti, Stanley Semeka, Aegnari Junior, Leon Kofana, Alick Stanton, Allen Peter, Danny Rofeni, Calvin Ohasio, Innocent Sinahanua, Prince Tahanipue, William Komasi, Patrick Taroga, Molis Gagame, Atkin Kaua, Dona Keana, Hudson Oreinimae, Hadyn Irodao, Raphael Le’ai, Ali Mekawir, Barry Limoki, Gagame Feni, Joses Nawo, Molea Tigi, Alfia Aunga, Marlon Tahioa, Micah Lea’alafa, Bobby Leslie, Dalton Saeni, Alvin Hou,Dickson Maggie, Norman Ngafu, John Orobulu, Junior Fordney and Rocky Junior.

Officials:

Caretaker Head Coach: Eddie Marahare

Caretaker Assistant Coach: Batram Suri

Caretaker Assitant Coach: Stanley Waita

Goalkeeper Coach: Tibon Oge

Physio: Charles Guaba

Kit Manager: Augustine Hou

New health minister vows transformation in SI healthcare

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Minister for MHMS Hon Dr Paul Bosawai Popora.

BY NED GAGAHE

Dr. Paul Popora Bosawai, recently sworn in as the Minister for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), pledges significant changes in the healthcare sector for the direct benefit of the people of the Solomon Islands.

Dr. Paul, a medical doctor by profession and the newly elected Member of Parliament for North Guadalcanal Constituency, assumed office following his swearing-in ceremony at the government house on Sunday.

Expressing his gratitude for the overwhelming support and congratulations received, Dr. Paul took to Facebook to convey his deep humility as he steps into this leadership role.

“Thank you all for the congratulatory messages. I am humble to take on the leadership in the health sector for the Solomon Islands,” he wrote, emphasizing his commitment to transforming healthcare for the nation’s citizens.

He acknowledged the supporters who paved the way for his current position and expressed readiness to work closely with donor partners and ministry staff to build a better and more resilient healthcare system for Solomon Islands.

Meanwhile, former MP Dr. Culwick Togamana lost his seat to new MP Maringe/Kokota Cathy Nori during the recent joint election.

Dr. Paul’s appointment signals a fresh chapter in Solomon Islands’ healthcare, with expectations high for transformative changes under his leadership.

The ‘Look North Policy”

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Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT). Photo credit - OUR PARTY.

BY CAROL-ANNE SULEGA

THE government has outlined a fundamental reform agenda aimed at enhancing various sectors. In the foreign policy domain, a selective and strategic approach, notably the “Look North” policy, will be pursued while maintaining ties with traditional partners.

This strategy, according to the current Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT), seeks to bolster national security interests while fostering robust engagement with external partners and donors, ensuring alignment with the government’s priorities.

Efforts to strengthen the economic and finance sector will involve the implementation of micro and macro policies to improve economic management. Additionally, the consolidation of project management units and the reduction of costs and wastage across ministries and agencies are prioritized to optimize government finances.

The coordination between key economic policy entities, including the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Ministry of Finance and Treasury, and Central Bank of Solomon Islands, will be enhanced to foster effective policymaking and implementation.

Moreover, support for the judiciary and parliamentary systems will be bolstered, reflecting the government’s commitment to strengthening governance and rule of law.

This includes reviewing existing policies and identifying new priority areas to address emerging challenges and opportunities. By streamlining operations and reducing inefficiencies, the government aims to ensure resources are allocated effectively to drive sustainable development and prosperity.

Overall, the reform agenda underscores the government’s determination to improve governance, economic management, and coordination among key sectors. These initiatives aim to enhance the country’s resilience, promote transparency and accountability, and foster inclusive growth and development for all citizens.

Productive sector to be prioritised

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BY CAROL-ANNE SULEGA

The government has unveiled its strategy to strengthen the productive sector by boosting financial and human resources dedicated to supporting key ministries.

This initiative aims to enhance efficiency and drive growth within vital sectors of the economy.

A comprehensive review of existing policies and the prioritization of new areas within sectors such as tourism, agriculture, fisheries, communication, aviation, lands, commerce, industry, and infrastructure are on the agenda. Mechanisms for implementation and coordination will be refined to ensure efficient execution of policies, with adjustments made where necessary to enhance productivity.

Similarly, the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) priorities state that efforts will be made to strengthen the resource sector by allocating increased resources and prioritizing key areas such as mines, energy, environment, climate change, disaster management, rural development, forestry, and reafforestation.

Mechanisms and coordination within the resource sector and its line ministries will be reviewed and improved to optimize resource utilization and promote sustainable development. Changes and adjustments will be instituted as needed to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities in the resource sector.

In the social sector, there is a commitment to augment resources, both financial and human, to support ministries focused on health, education, provincial government, police, traditional governance, women, youth, family, child affairs, home affairs, and public service.

A thorough review of existing policies and the identification of new priority areas will be conducted to address pressing social issues. Mechanisms and coordination within the social sector and its line ministries will be enhanced to ensure effective service delivery and response to community needs, with adjustments made as required to improve outcomes.

Overall, the government’s strategy aims to bolster the productive, resource, and social sectors through increased investment, policy review, and improved coordination. By addressing key challenges and leveraging opportunities, the government seeks to promote economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social well-being for all citizens.

Manetoali’s case adjourned May 24

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In-court

BY ROMINAH FAKA

The fraud case against the former member of parliament for Gao/Bugotu, Samuel Manetoali, has been moved for May 24.

This is to allow time for prosecution and defence to update court on the status of the case’s Court of Appeal sitting.

State prosecutor Olivia Ratu Manu told court that since the last mention of the case she has not received any listing of this matter for the Court of Appeal sitting which was set for May 20-31.

Mrs Manu informed court that their office of Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) only received six cases for the court of appeal sitting this month and Manetoali’s case was not included in those six cases.

Crown also told court it had received notice of the appeal which was filed in June last year.

However, crown does not know why the matter is not listed in the court of appeal sitting cases.

Court adjourned the matter for May 24 for counsels to update court on the progress of Manetoali’s appeal file. Court suspended Manetoali from appearing in court in the next hearing.

In 2019 a Honiara Magistrate acquitted Manetoali of 18 counts of conversion after ruling on No Case to answer submitted by Manetoali and his lawyer.

Prosecution appealed the magistrate’s decision in the High Court.

Chief Justic Sir Albert Palmer heard the appeal and dismissed eight counts of conversion and ordered the matter to be remitted to the Magistrate court for a re-trial before another magistrate for 10 counts of conversion.

The allegation against Manetoali related to the payment of $100,000 of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) into the Gao/Bugotu Account with the ANZ Bank between December 24, 2014 and January 4, 2015.

In the acquittal report, 10 different people were recorded as recipients of a total of $7,322 for the payment of medical, carton beers, old people assistance, wedding assistance and gallons of petrol.

The recipients reported the matter to police after they did not receive the funds though their names appeared in the payment voucher.

Mrs. Olivia Ratu Manu of Office of DPP act for crown and Jim Seuika of DNS and Partners Law Firm act for defence.

Lessons the govt aims to work on

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BY CAROL-ANNE SULEGA

REFLECTING on their term, the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) acknowledges the myriad lessons learned amidst challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and social unrest.

According to the current government’s priorities, despite these trials, strong leadership and political stability enabled the country to weather the storm. Moving forward, the focus remains on fostering unity, inclusivity, and societal harmony among Solomon Islanders. Collaboration with stakeholders, including development partners, is emphasized to tackle future challenges effectively.

Key priorities for the future include building resilience to unforeseen crises like pandemics and civil unrest through investments in healthcare systems and emergency response capabilities.

Dialogue and reconciliation efforts will address domestic tensions by engaging marginalized communities and promoting social cohesion. Strategic diplomacy will uphold national interests while prioritizing economic development, security, and independence.

Transparency, accountability, and good governance are vital for rebuilding public trust and combating corruption. Economic diversification and sustainability efforts aim to reduce dependency on external factors by investing in renewable energy, agriculture, tourism, and technology. Capacity building and collaboration with regional and international partners will be crucial for addressing complex challenges and seizing development opportunities.

The government pledges to engage in partnerships aligned with national development priorities to facilitate knowledge sharing and resource mobilization.

By prioritizing resilience, unity, transparency, economic diversification, and capacity building, officials aim to steer the country towards a brighter future despite the challenges ahead.

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