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Former MP assaulted by partner

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

THE former Member of Parliament for Central Guadalcanal Constituency has suffered head injuries, marking another unfortunate case of domestic violence.

Yesterday, this paper obtained a distressing image related to the incident, highlighting the severity of the assault.

This shocking event has prompted concern and condemnation from some members of the Central Guadalcanal Constituency, expressing their intention to address the issue through a cultural approach.

According to unconfirmed reports, the assault was a result of a heated argument between the former MP and his partner over some domestic issues.

Constituents said domestic violence is a matter of grave concern and should be condemned.

Island Sun made attempts to get a response from the police regarding the incident whether it was reported but was unsuccessful.

The former MP’s case highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive response to address domestic violence and protect not only women and children but for all genders inside communities.

Man facing counts of domestic violence to take plea on Friday

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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BY ROMINAH FAKA

A man facing multiple charges of domestic violence is expected to take his plea in court on Friday this week in light of amended charges.

Ishmael Renton was initially charged with three counts of domestic violence. Following a proposal by the defence, prosecution has decided to remove one of those charges.

Defence sent a second proposal to prosecution in the previous hearing.

This was for prosecution to withdraw a second count against the defendant.

Prosecution informed court he needed time to respond to the second proposal.

Court instructed both counsels to discuss with each other before coming back to court on Friday this week for Renton to take his plea.

Court extended bail for Renton and he is required to come to court on the next mention date.

Prosecution alleged on the unknown date between 1st and 31st of August 2022 at Mud Land, Zion defendant Renton psychologically abuses the complainant, by doing a conduct that humiliated him and insult him whilst holding onto a 24inch bush knife and a steel rod while striking the copper fence of the complainant compound.

Again, on August 12, 2023 at Mud Lack, Zion Renton did economically abuse Complainant by damaging his properties namely kitchen, copper, tank and wall of their dwelling house.

The complainant went and report the matter to the police and defendant charged.

Lydon Adifaka of Police Prosecution Department act for the Crown and Mrs. Emy Rusi of PSO appear for the defendant.

Case of rape with multiple counts committed to the High Court

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case against a man accused of multiple counts of rape has been committed to the High Court for trial.

John Junior Laufilu is facing four counts of rape and one count of common assault.

He pleaded not guilty to all counts.

Magistrate Dalcy Belapitu Oligari delivered the ruling saying the evidence prosecution submitted was sufficient to commit the accused to the High Court to stand trial.

Oligari directed that the case be called in the High Court on February 23.  Court extended the bail for the accused Laufilu.

Prosecution alleged that on October 28, 2023 at Papaho area, Laufilu had sexual intercourse with the complainant without her consent.

The defendant also allegedly assaulted the same complainant on the same day he had sexual intercourse with her.

Again, on October 29, 2023 at Papaho, the accused allegedly had sexual intercourse with the same complainant without her consent.

Gina Oroi of DPP office act for the Crown and Ben Alasia of PSO appear for the defendant.

False pretence case back in court today

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case against a man accused of false pretence relating to an incident in April last year will return today for court to set a trial date.

Eli Deke is charged with one count of false pretence.

He pleaded not guilty and an oral pre-trial conference was carried out in the previous hearing.

Prosecution told court they will called two witness to testify under oath and another two witness to tend their statements unless the defence counsel requires them to appear for cross-examination.

Court made directions for the matter to be listed before Principal Magistrate Elma Veenah Rizzu Hilly for setting of the trial date.

Prosecution alleged that Mr Deke at Honiara, Guadalcanal Island on the 4th of April 2023, by false pretence namely, “he stated that they are selling two drums of petrol at $ 1700 dollars per drum at Markworth” and with the intention to defraud, did obtain from the complainant a sum of money said to being $ 3,400 SBD.

The complainant upon knowing the defendant defrauded her went and reported the matter to the police.

Defendant Deke was arrested and charged.

Steward Tonowane of DPP office appears for the crown and Vincent Nomae of Public Solicitor office appears for the defendant.

‘ENOUGH SWEET TALK’

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Bernard Garo. Photo supplied.

Caretaker PM’s speech on national unity described as ‘mere propaganda’

Chairman of the North West Guadalcanal Subsistence Farmers Association (NWGSFA) Bernard Garo has described the Prime Minister’s speech on national unity as ‘mere propaganda’.

Mr Garo said he is surprised that the caretaker Prime Minister has the audacity to make mention of the ethnic crisis in 2000.

Garo said as a witness to the Townsville Peace Agreement, he is surprised that the caretaker Prime Minister as leader of Our Party said he is committed to address a united Solomon Islands.

“I was involved in the peace agreement and it is unfortunate that the government has failed in addressing the Townsville Agreement especially the cries of the people of Guadalcanal and Malaita provinces,” he said.

Garo said the caretaker Prime Minister with due respect is a seasoned politician and had been at the helm for four terms yet nothing has been done except empty promises.

“Successive leadership and governments have continued to preach propaganda on rehabilitation of victims and have continued to mishandle the underlying issues relating to the crisis,” he said.

Garo said one of the key factors within the Townsville Agreement was rehabilitating the lives of those who were affected; to date he said it proved nothing but sweet talk.

Garo also described the government’s push for state government as a political propaganda.

He said it is clear that the people of Guadalcanal would never see state government under this current leadership because of political rhetoric and no willpower to hear the cries of the people.

Garo said he is also surprised seven former Guadalcanal MPs in the DCGA Government have also chosen to be used as scapegoats and puppets.

“I am sad that our seven former Guadalcanal MPs have ignored the cries of our people for the last 20 years,” he said.

“Not only Guadalcanal but all other provinces. It will be business as usual because there is no political will to do these things but only sweet empty promises,” he said.

Speaking on corruption, Garo said the Prime Minister’s statement on fighting corruption is a joke.

He said the fight should start from the top down because a corrupt leadership corrupts good governance and the whole government mechanism.

“It is a pity that the Prime Minister is preaching the fight against corruption but a good number of the DCGA caretaker ministers and backbenchers have recently been charged for corruption,” he said.

“Who are you trying to fool make sure your backyard is clean,” Garo adds.

PIF calls for global action on climate change

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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Henry Puna

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

PACIFIC Island Forum Secretary General Henry Puna has highlighted the realities of climate change faced by the Pacific region recently.

He said climate change and sea-level rise are paramount threats endangering the lives, livelihoods, and well-being of Pacific peoples.

“If the world had heeded our calls 10 or 20 years ago, we would not be in this situation, contemplating difficult and complex choices about our homes, ancestral lands, and way of life.” Puna said.

He highlighted the specific challenges of climate-related mobility. The recently endorsed Pacific Regional Framework on Climate Mobility, a global first, has been developed with leadership from Fiji and Tuvalu over four years of inclusive consultations.

The framework places a fundamental priority on allowing Pacific people to remain in their homes while establishing mechanisms to protect the rights and dignity of those who choose to move.

He said the nature of climate mobility requires that all voices be heard. This pioneering framework addresses climate change and disaster-related mobility within the Pacific context, aiming to place our region and people on a more resilient footing.”

Highlighting the need for leadership and collaboration, Puna commended the framework’s underlying principles.

“While we should not be forced to leave our homes, responsible leaders must ensure that mechanisms and pathways are in place to protect the human rights and dignity of our people on the move.” Puna said.

The framework aligns with the Leaders’ Declaration on the Continuity of Statehood and the Protection of Persons, emphasizing the protection of human rights, culture, cultural heritage, identity, and dignity. It emphasizes the duty of states to ensure continuity of statehood for protection to be implemented and endured.

Aligned with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, the framework’s implementation will be guided by Pacific values of cooperation, innovation, and respect for diversity and heritage.

Puna expressed anticipation for strengthened engagement with partners, civil society, youth, communities, and regional and international organizations to assist Pacific people in navigating the uncertainties arising from climate change impacts.

Therefore, the Secretary General urged the global community to join hands in addressing the pressing climate challenges faced by the Pacific region.

USP new campus to offer public health

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New USP SI campus. Photo credit - USPSI

BY INDY MAEALASIA

The newly built University of the South Pacific (USP) Solomon Islands Campus will be the institution’s Public Health school.

USP-SI Campus Director, Dr Billy Fito’o told the media during a recent tour of the new USP Campus in East Honiara.

“USP currently does not have a Public Health school so once we have this completed, this school will accommodate all students around the region wishing to the pursue the program” Dr Fito’o said.

Dr Fito’o clarified that apart from it being a public health school, the institution will continue to offer all its normal programs.

He explained that since there would be students from other pacific Islands countries coming to pursue the Public Health program, the institution still has a bigger task in hand and that is to provide accommodation.

He assured that USP is aware of this and is looking to build accommodations which he stated that if it goes according to plan, it will be phase three of the current project.  

So far, the project which is nearing the completion of phase 1 includes three buildings.

Project Contractor, China Harbour Engineering and Project consultant, Kramer Ausenco assured that the complex is built with quality and fitted with the latest tech, all tailored to suit Solomon Islands’ geographical and cultural feature.

PS Vehe commends Japan

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Permanent secretary Ministry of Mines, Dr Chris Vehe. Photo credit - SIG Portal Online.

BY NED GAGAHE

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) Dr. Chris Vehe has commended the Government of Japan for the donation of comprehensive equipment to support the ministry enhanced its capability in Geoscience, research and environmental conservation efforts.

At a historic occasion on Wednesday, the Japanese Ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Miwa Yoshiaki handed over various advanced equipment including Carbon and Sulfur Analyzer, Gas Chromatograph, X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer and a double cabin hilux to support the work of Geological Survey Division.

Acknowledging the Japanese assistance, Permanent Secretary Vehe said the enduring partnership between the two governments represents the shared commitment to progress, innovation and sustainability.

He said the delivery of the equipment marks a new era in our collaborative journey that will significantly enhance our scientific research and environmental conservation efforts in Solomon Islands.

The Permanent Secretary also extend his Ministry’s appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External trade for enabling the ministry through our diplomatic cooperation with Japan which resulted in the delivery of the equipment.

On the donation of the vehicle, PS Vehe said the vehicle is not just a mode of transportation but a symbol of the strong bond between our nations.

“It will significantly enhance our field research capabilities in Geoscience, secondly, enable our teams to reach remote areas, ensuring safe and efficient transport of personnel and equipment for on-site work.

“Carbon and Sulphur Analyser: This instrument is vital for the precise determination of carbon and sulphur content in various materials, playing a crucial role in environmental monitoring, quality control in manufacturing, and research activities, thereby supporting our efforts in mineral development and also in environmental conservation and industrial development. 

“Gas Chromatograph: Essential for analysing volatile substances, this equipment allows us to separate and identify compounds in a mixture, crucial for monitoring volcanic gases and natural hydrocarbon analysis, enhancing our analytical capabilities and ensuring public health and safety and the development of petroleum exploration.

“X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer: This tool enables non-destructive analysis of materials, providing accurate elemental composition data. It’s indispensable in mining and geology, aiding in assessing natural resources and environmental pollutants, thus supporting sustainable management of our natural resources.

“Together, these items significantly enhance our operational capabilities. The pickup truck ensures mobility and access to remote locations for fieldwork. The Carbon and Sulfur Analyzer, Gas Chromatograph, and X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer elevate our analytical precision, allowing for comprehensive mineralogical assessments and research endeavours.

“This array of equipment is a testament to Japan’s technological advancement and support, enabling us to address pressing challenges with greater efficacy.

“This gesture, encompassing both logistical and scientific advancements, reflects a profound understanding of our needs and a sincere desire to assist in our developmental journey. It exemplifies the strength of our collaborative spirit and opens untold opportunities for growth and discovery in the Solomon Islands.

“I wish to acknowledge the dedication of everyone involved in this project, from both the Solomon Islands and Japan. Your commitment has been instrumental in realizing this significant achievement.

“These resources pave the way for enhanced collaboration, research, and development. We are eager to utilize them to their fullest potential, enhancing our contributions to the global scientific community and furthering our cooperative endeavours.

“We extend our deepest appreciation to the Japanese government for their unmatched generosity. This comprehensive donation vividly represents our shared commitment to a brighter, more sustainable future. 

“Thank you, and let us continue to drive forward together toward a future rich in growth, innovation, and enduring partnership.” Dr. Chris Vehe said.

Japan equips MMERE with advanced equipment

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MMERE Permanent Secretary Dr. Chris Vehe received the key of the vehicle from Japanese Ambassador Miwa Yoshiaki while Director Geological Survey Division Clinton Roga looks on.

BY NED GAGAHE

The Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification got boosted with advanced equipment funded by the Government and the people of Japan.

At a groundbreaking handover ceremony on Wednesday 8 February 2024 at MMERE headquarter, Japanese Ambassador Miwa Yoshiaki handed over the equipment to Permanent Secretary Dr. Chris Vehe.

The handover was witnessed by senior officials from MMERE, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Japanese Embassy and the media.

The Ministry took delivery of vital equipment including Carbon and Sulfur Analyzer, Gas Chromatograph, and X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer and a double cabin hilux to support the Geological Survey Division.

In his remarks at the occasion, His Excellency Miwa Yoshiaki said, “I am honored to be here today for the handing over ceremony of equipment’s related to the Project “Enhancing Capacity for Geohazard Monitoring and Disaster Mitigation in the Solomon Islands” supporting the Geological Survey Division within the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification.

Mr. Miwa said it is aimed at improving the livelihood of fellow Solomon Islanders which was funded under the Japanese Government’s Economic Social Development Program to Solomon Islands.

Last year, Japan also handed over some equipment related to the project.

“As I recalled, last year on 20th of November, we handed over some equipment’s related to this project.

“Today, we are here to witness again another handing over of equipment such as Pickup Truck, Carbon and Sulfur Analyzer, Gas Chromatograph, and X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer to support the Geological Survey Division.

“Given the risk levels and unpredictability for a sudden hazard in Solomon Islands, we believed that with this project support, it will help the Geological division to enhance the nation’s capability to monitor and mitigate Geohazard, primarily through developing comprehensive national Geohazard maps and improving existing monitory systems and also to enhance real-time monitoring and rapid response capabilities, that will strengthen the nation’s resilience and capacity to effectively anticipate, prepare for and respond to natural disasters.

“This project aims to immensely improve Solomon Islands disaster management capabilities when it comes to Geohazard. Protecting the lives of every Solomon Islanders and safeguarding the Nation’s economic and development interests, reinforcing the commitment to resilience and sustainable in growth in the face of environmental challenges is the ultimate outcome of this project.

Ambassador Miwa said the handover reflects Japan’s continuous support to the Social and Economic development of Solomon Islands.

He said the Government of Japan strongly upholds the cordial relationship with the Government of Solomon Islands and will continue to support the Government of Solomon Islands with its development plans in the years ahead.

“Today’s handing over ceremony is a reminder to all of us that despite the huddles we’ve overcame, we can still adapt in collaboration to move forward with our development assistance and plans.

“Despite the immense task of upcoming events burdened such as the National General Election 2024 upon your team, today we are witnessing the positive outcome of your tireless work.

“On this note I would like to thank the Care-taker Minister Hon. Bradley Tovosia, Permanent Secretary Dr. Chris Vehe and staffs of the Ministry for the great job done in ensuring the successful completion of today’s event.

In response, MMERE’s Permanent Secretary Dr. Chris Vehe expressed deep gratitude to the Government and the good people of Japan for the generous donation.

“With immense honour and deep appreciation, I stand before you today at this handover ceremony, commemorating a significant gesture of generosity and partnership between our nations, reflecting our shared commitment to progress, innovation, and sustainability.

“On behalf of the Ministry of Mines, Energy, and Rural Electrification, I extend our heartfelt thanks to the Japanese government for their generous donation of the various advanced equipment, marking a new era in our collaborative journey and significantly enhancing our scientific research and environmental conservation efforts.” Dr. Chris Vehe said.

USAID SCALE project sinking, COP resigns  

Written by
Samie Waikori
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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

THE USAID SCALE project in Malaita province is reported to be sinking as its Chief of Party, Dr Morgan Wairiu, who is trusted to fulfill the project goals is no longer with the organization.

The USD25m program, on the other is yet to display anything tangible while Malaitans are still waiting to realize the ultimate goals of the project.

A well-placed source in Auki told SunAuki on the dull projection of the project, whilst the 5-year project has less than 2-years before it ends.

The sources said that since its famous inception in Malaita in 2020, the so-called USAID funded SCALE program is yet to show anything tangible as expected by Malaitans.

It said one of the main implementing partners of the SCALE-NRM, Winrock has only less than two years to achieve and fulfill what is expected by Malaitans before the project ends, but is still struggling to make convincing achievements.

The sources claimed the project’s failure to achieve expectations could result in people leaving the project before its final one and half years dawn on them.

One reliable source from MPG said the COP of SCALE-NRM, Dr Wairiu who was trusted to fulfilled the project goals may have anticipate failure and decided to abandon the project.

The source claimed that he resigned at the end of December 2023 and abandoned the project, leaving staff and those associated with the project baffled.

Other sources close to the USAID funded Winrock said Dr Wairiu left on medical grounds, but if he still works with other groups, it is clear the project outlook is dimmer for Malaitans.

And for others who benefitted from grants also claimed that they received tools that cannot make any considerable impact to the lives of people.

“In fact, what RCDF are giving out like copper have significant impact”, one source said.

The source said the USD25 million project is yet to materialize in Malaita and hope is narrowing as it only has less than 2 years until 2025 for the project to end.   

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