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Grievous harm and assault case adjourned

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case against two men accused of attacking another man has been moved for May 9.

This is for court to set a new trial date.

Zane Taisia Gegeu is charged with one count of grievous bodily harm and Brendon Kakai with one count of common assault.

The case was mentioned yesterday before Principal Magistrate Fatimah Taeburi for the court and counsels to decide on a new trial date for Gegeu, who had pleaded not guilty to the grievous harm charge.

Kakai had pleaded guilty to common assault and is waiting for Gegeu’s trial to complete before his lawyer can make his sentencing and submissions.

Prosecution told court yesterday the matter had been set for trial on April 15, but the trial was vacated and the magistrate made instructions for the setting of new trial dates to be done before Principal Magistrate Elma Rizzu Hilly.

Court adjourned the case for May 9, to be heard before presiding Principal Magistrate Hilly for the setting of a new trial date.

Bail for Kakai was extended and remand warrant for Taisia was extended.

Taisia is also facing an ongoing murder and driving without licence charges which he pleaded not guilty to.

This matter has been committed to the High Court for trial.

With the Gegeu and Brendon’s joint case, it is alleged that early morning January 1 this year, Gegeu together with co-accused Kakai without a lawful excuse assaulted the complainant at the Pacific Crown Hotel who at the time was arguing with Gegeu’s sister.

It was further alleged that Gegeu took a Solbrew bottle and hit the complainant’s head with it, causing blood and injury to the complainant’s forehead.

The complainant reported the matter to police the next day.

John Wesley Zoze from Public Prosecution Office act for the Crown and Lazurus Waroka of PSO act for Zane Taisia Gegeu and Ron Pulekera act for Brendon Kakai.

BIG PLANS FOR GOV’T

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

BY CAROL-ANNE SULEGA

The upcoming Government For National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) has set forth five pivotal priority areas to guide its policy agenda.

These areas form the cornerstone of GNUT’s commitment to fostering positive change and advancement across the nation.

Firstly, is the commitment to upholding the rule of law and governance, including strengthening legal and governance systems, party structures, and supporting constitutional reforms and integrity institutions.

Secondly, is the focus on national unity and social cohesion, with plans to draft a federal constitution, continue peace efforts, promote sports and tourism, and empower marginalized groups.

Socio-economic development and prosperity rank third on the agenda, with aims to improve health services, enhance education and training, boost employment, review tax regimes, and support rural sustainable development.

Infrastructure development, both economic and social, is highlighted, covering areas such as communications, transportation, healthcare, education, and sports facilities.

Foreign policy, trade, and national security are also key priorities, with plans to engage strategically with global partners while maintaining strong ties with traditional allies. This includes forging new partnerships in trade, investment, and environmental issues, as well as enhancing border control and defence capabilities through legislative reforms and the creation of a new defence force.

According to their policy priorities, the government also aims to empower land and resource owners through initiatives such as recording customary land, implementing land restitution policies, and recognizing indigenous customs.

It is stated that the government also plans to review major economic projects and ensure strategies are in place to promote, protect, and safeguard land and sea resources.

Overall, their key priorities is said to reflect the government’s commitment to addressing a wide range of issues, from legal and governance reforms to social welfare, economic development, and national security, with a focus on unity, prosperity, and empowerment of its citizens.

Elected Member for everyone: Sammy

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Solomon Sammy

Solomon Sammy, a chief from the Kovala tribe and a candidate for the Ranogga/Simbo Constituency, wants to make something clear: the constituency is for everyone, not just the people who voted for the winning candidate.

After the official results were announced recently, there were some rumors and confusion about who the constituency is supposed to serve. But Chief Sammy wants to set the record straight. He’s not just a chief; he’s also a meteorologist who works for the government. Even though he ran for office in the past and didn’t win, he still cares deeply about his community.

“The Member of Parliament for Ranogga/Simbo represents all of us, not just the ones who voted for him,” Chief Sammy explained. “We need to work together to support our MP, whether we voted for him or not. It’s not about winning or losing; it’s about helping our community.”

Another community leader, Mr. Abel Alekolo, is also speaking up. He’s urging the people who supported the winning MP, Wayne Osopo Ghemu, to take charge of the development projects and needs in the community. “You have the power to make a difference,” he reminded them.

And despite the challenges, the supporters of the newly elected MP are already celebrating their victory. They’re coming together to congratulate each other and to look forward to a brighter future for Ranogga/Simbo.

–BY CHRISTOPHER PODOKOLO, STRINGER ISLAND SUN

Warriors departs for Champions League today

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Solomon Warriors FC players celebrate after scoring-PHOTO CREDIT - SWFC MEDIA

BY ELTON LONRATHA JNR

TELEKOM Super League (TSL) Champions Solomon Warriors Football Club (FC) will depart today for the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Champions League 2024 in Tahiti.

The tournament will kick off this week from the 11th to the 24th at Stade Paea and Stade Pater.

A total of eight top football clubs in the region will be vying for this year’s title in the two weeks packed with football action.

Solomon Islands eight-time club champions head coach, Franco Ne’e, told SunSPORTS confirming the team’s departure for the tournament, adding that the team is well-prepared.

“The team will depart today for the tournament.

“Team preparation was excellent. In terms of our team bonding, since the start of the TSL league, we played 3 games, which also helped to build the team’s momentum before departing for the Champions League.

“I’m happy with the boy’s performance in the new TSL season, and this is the type of performance the boys should deliver,” Ne’e said.

With the 3 matches played in the TSL, Ne’e told SunSPORTS that their preparation has entered recovery mode for the past three days.

“However, the main focus is to keep the players confident with each other and get used to the rhythm, similar to what we will be expecting at the OCL championship in Tahiti,” the coach told SunSPORTS.

Meanwhile, the TSL champions, Solomon Warriors, remain undefeated after playing three matches in the new season.

They beat Real Kakamora FC 3-2 in their first game, followed by a 3-1 victory over Henderson Eels FC, and another 4-1 win against Laugu United on Saturday at Lawson Tama Stadium.

The team is drawn in Group A with Hekari United FC, Rewa FC, and defending champions Auckland City FC, while AS Pirae, Vaivase-Tai FC, AS Magenta, and Ifira Black Bird are drawn in Group B.

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

The winner of the OFC Men’s Champions League 2024 will represent Oceania at the new FIFA Intercontinental Cup in December.

The OFC winner will travel to either Africa or Asia to meet the winner of the CAF Champions League or AFC Champions League in the first round.

Solomon Warriors FC will take on Hekari United FC in its first match in the Champions League 2024 this weekend. The match will be played this Saturday at Stade Paea, at 3:00 PM.

MUP Assembly Ministers sworn-in today

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Ministers of the Makira Ulawa Province Assembly posed for a photo shot after taking their oaths.

BY MORRIS NAFU

Today, the Ministers of the Makira Ulawa Province Assembly will take their oaths of office.

Makira Ulawa’s new premier, Standly Siapu, will announce nine (9) new provincial government Ministers today, May 6th, 2024, to start working at the Provincial Assembly Chamber

Top of Form

Premier Siapu, who was just elected to lead the province, believes strongly that his government can make the changes needed for progress

Before the ceremony last week, Premier Siapu talked to the people of Makira Ulawa Province. He told them he’s sure about his administration and their shared vision to bring the change the province really needs to make progress.

Notably, Premier Siapu’s government comprises mostly of new faces, with few former Provincial Members of Assembly (MPAs).

The addition of new talent shows that things are changing from how they used to be. It also shows a promise to bring new ideas and energy to governing.

Meanwhile appointed Makira Ulawa MPA ministers are:

Honorable Stephen Ngara-Deputy Premier and Minister for Works, transport

Honorable Silas Wagatora-Minister for Finance

Honorable  Fr. Stanley  – Mamanu Minister for Planning

Honorable Joseph W Pinita – Minister for Lands and Agriculture

Honorable John Sautehi – Minister for Natural Resources

Honorable Donald Tahani – Minister for Health and Medical services

Honorable Martin Karani – Minister for Commerce, Investment, Trade Labour and Tourism

Honorable Daniel Dautaha – Minister for Community Governance, youth, sports

Honorable Emmanuel Toreiramo – Minister for Education.

CELEBRATING DIVERSITY

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Participants during the HTTA hosted WTTD2024 at the Multi Purpose Hall. Photo supplied.

…Diversity and Inclusion Take Center Stage at World Table Tennis Day 2024 in Honiara

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

THE Honiara Table Tennis Association (HTTA) hosted World Table Tennis Day 2024 at the Honiara City Council (HCC) Multi-Purpose Hall on Saturday.

This year’s World Table Tennis Day 2024 theme is “Diversity and Inclusion.”

This theme reflects the core values of the sport, highlighting its power to unite individuals from diverse backgrounds in a shared passion for the game.

Like any other country celebrating the annual event, HTTA took the lead with the support of the Solomon Islands National Paralympic Committee (SINPC).

More than 30-plus participants gathered, especially kids, to witness the senior table tennis athletes showcasing their skills in a series of matches.

HTTA President Kevin Olea thanked everyone for the huge turnout and thanked SINPC for the ongoing collaboration.

“It’s indeed a fantastic day to mark this Global event and to allow the young talents to witness the performance of the senior athletes both in Able and Para-table tennis.

“On behalf of HTTA, I would like to thank our sponsors and supporters, especially HCC, for their continuous partnership with table tennis.

“There will be more events scheduled for table tennis this year, and it’s positive to see a surge in interest in the sport,” Olea said.

SINPC President Nihal Seneviratne also thanked HTTA for the ongoing effort to organize sports inclusion events like this.

“I appreciate the support of parents who are involved in this program.

“The Para-table tennis athletes will be anticipating more participation in this kind of event this year,” he said.

WORLD CUP DEBUT

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Team Para-Powerlifting with SINPC President before departure yesterday. Photo supplied.

…..Solomon Islands’ First Appearance at the Para Powerlifting World Cup 2024

BY ELTON LONRATHA JNR

TWO male Para Powerlifting athletes departed yesterday to compete in the World Para Powerlifting World Cup 2024, in Pattaya, Thailand.

The four-day event will run from the 8th to the 11th of this month and will be participated by accepted Para-Powerlifting male and female athletes around the World.

Solomon Islands Paralympic Committee (SINPC) President Nihal Seneviratne confirmed to SunSPORTS that this is history for the Solomon Islands.

“Two Para-Powerlifters left the country to compete in the Para-Powerlifting World Cup 2024 in Thailand.

“The two athletes, namely Moffat Tolomae and Rodney Konai, were accompanied by coach Leslie Ata.

“Tolomae will be competing in the 49KG, while Konai is up for the 59KG challenge,” the SINPC President confirmed.

Seneviratne also revealed this is history for the Solomon Islands to make its first appearance at the Para-Powerlifting World Cup.

“New Zealand and other Pacific Countries are not participating in this event except for Australia and the Solomon Islands.

“I wish our three representatives the best of luck,” he added.

Meanwhile, the official weigh-in will start from the 7th to the 10th after the Technical meeting today.

The World Para Powerlifting World Cup season brings together international stars and newcomers, offering competition opportunities to athletes across the world.

The World Cups also distribute important ranking points which will help determine the qualification slots for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

All final entries (by name and bodyweight category) are completed last month, on the 22nd March 2024.

Please note that after this deadline no changes to the final entries and or final team delegation be accepted unless under exceptional circumstances.

Please note that any decisions concerning this matter will be made by WPPO and are not open for further contest or appeal by any other organization or body.

Changes of bodyweight category after 22nd March 2024 will only be possible during the verification process.

No change will be possible after the Technical Meeting for Individual and Team Events.

The competition and registration process and timelines are outlined and athlete entries will only be accepted via the IPC Online Entry System within the published entry deadlines.

Pattaya is a city in eastern Thailand, the second largest city in Chonburi province and the eighth largest city in Thailand.

It is located on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, about 140 kilometres southeast of Bangkok. Pattaya City is a self-governing municipal area within the Bang Lamung district, but is not part of it.

Siapu’s government vows to restore PCDF funding disqualification

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The newly elected premier of Makira Ulawa province, Hon Stanley Siapu.

BY MORRIS NAFU

The Makira Ulawa Provincial government has set out its plans to fix financial problems and manage the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF) better.

In the past, they faced problems getting PCDF money.

Premier Siapu’s government wants to fix this quickly so that the people of Makira Ulawa Province can get the development funds they need.

They’re getting ready to present a budget in June. This budget will decide how money is spent in different areas, with a big focus on fixing the PCDF.

They plan to qualify for PCDF funds again before July 1, 2024. They’re working hard to meet the conditions to get access to these funds, which are important for growth and development in the province.

The government will track how the funds are used, how projects are finished, and what impact they have.

The Premier’s office says they’ll send the list of appointed Ministers today, and then there will be a swearing-in ceremony for them to start their jobs

Media’s impactful reporting amidst challenges commended

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MASI President, Georgina Kekea.

BY NED GAGAHE

Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) has commended media organizations and journalists in Solomon Islands for demonstrating resilience, adaptability and striving to fulfill their crucial role in informing the public amidst challenging times.

Speaking at a media breakfast event commemorating World Press Freedom Day on May 3rd, 2024, Geogina Kekea, President of MASI, highlighted the resilience of media organizations in overcoming various challenges.

Kekea noted that despite facing unprecedented hurdles such as the 2021 riots, the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2022 earthquake, and ongoing political disruptions, media outlets have persevered and navigated through turbulent times.

“The past years have been a struggle for media organizations, navigating through the events of the 2021 riots, the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2022 earthquake and political disruptions.

“Despite these challenges, our media professionals have demonstrated remarkable resilience and dedication to their craft.

“Their coverage of events such as the Pacific Games, the joint elections and the election of the Prime Minister has been exemplary, providing the public with vital information and fostering greater civic engagement.

The President of MASI underscored the pressing realities confronting media entities, stressing the imperative to confront daily hurdles head-on. With limited resources, time pressures, and the ever-evolving media landscape present significant challenges to their operations.

Kekea highlighted the plight of numerous newsrooms functioning with minimal staff, pushed to their boundaries, yet persisting with unwavering dedication and a profound sense of responsibility toward the public good.

She said the media landscape in Solomon Islands presents unique challenges. Limited capacity, constrained budgets and reliance on word-of-mouth communication are just some of the obstacles that journalists and media organizations struggle with on a daily basis.

She emphasizes that although international support, such as that offered by the British government through BBC Media Action, is invaluable, there is a clear imperative to further bolster the sustainability and resilience of local media outlets.

“Despite these challenges, the role of journalism in promoting national security cannot be overstated.

“A free and independent press serves as a defense against misinformation and disinformation, providing citizens with the information they need to make informed decisions.

“By fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, journalists contribute to the stability and security of our nation.” MASI President Geogina Kekea said.

Meanwhile, in conjunction with BBC Media Action, MASI hosted a breakfast event on Friday, May 3rd, at Heritage Park Hotel to mark World Press Freedom Day.

The event drew local journalists and esteemed guests under the theme of ‘A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis.’

This year’s celebration stands as a touching tribute to the fundamental principles of press freedom, offering a forum to evaluate its global standing, uphold media independence, and pay tribute to journalists who have bravely sacrificed in the pursuit of truth.

World press Freedom Day marked

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Jeremy Gwao of Tavuli News, Mavis Podokolo of Island Sun Newspaper and Eliza Kukutu of SIBC.

The Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI), along with its members and partners, met yesterday to celebrate World Press Freedom Day. They had a breakfast ceremony at the Heritage Park Hotel

The event brought together media practitioners and esteemed guests. During the gathering, MASI President Ms. Geogina Kekea gave a speech highlighting the important role of journalists and media professionals in our society.

Kekea said, “Journalists are like heroes who work hard every day to find the truth, make sure powerful people do the right thing, and speak up for those who can’t.”

She also praised journalists who face many problems but still keep trying to do great journalism. “We admire their bravery, strength, and never giving up on their job,” she added

In recent years, media groups faced tough times dealing with events like the 2021 riots, Covid-19 pandemic, 2022 earthquake, and political chaos. But even with these hard times, our media pros showed strong determination and commitment to their work.

The President praised their reporting on big events like the Pacific Games, recent joint elections, and the Prime Minister’s election. He said they did a great job providing important info to the public and encouraging more people to get involved in civic matters.

Backing up Kekea’s words, Kora Nou, the president of the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA), called on media groups in the Pacific to promise to protect media freedom, uphold journalism’s honesty, and work together with other sectors to tackle the environmental and journalism problems in our area

We can use journalism’s strength to tell people, motivate them, and get them to act for a better future that’s fair, strong, and lasting, not just for the Pacific but everywhere,” the statement said.

This year’s theme, “Press for the Planet: Journalism in the face of the environmental crisis,” shows how important journalism is in dealing with big environmental problems that affect everyone around the world.

Meanwhile the breakfast ceremony provided a platform for media practitioners to reflect on their responsibilities and reaffirm their commitment to journalistic integrity and freedom of the press.

It served as a poignant reminder of the vital role that a free and independent media plays in safeguarding democracy, promoting transparency, and fostering informed public discourse.

As the world grapples with pressing environmental concerns, the Media Association of Solomon Islands stands at the forefront of the fight for press freedom and environmental justice.

Through their unwavering dedication to truth, accountability, and advocacy, journalists and media professionals continue to champion the cause of a sustainable future for generations to come.

The commemoration of World Press Freedom Day serves as a rallying cry for journalists everywhere to press on in their pursuit of truth, justice, and environmental stewardship.

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