Following the conclusion of the National Election on April 17th, 2024, Solomon Islands Party for Rural Advancement (SIPRA) candidate George Atoa, who secured the fourth position, has taken a proactive stance to address misinformation circulating in East Malaita Province.

Atoa, in a recent statement, addressed friends, family, and political supporters, expressing his concern over false rumors regarding his alleged involvement in a firearm-related incident and subsequent arrest, charges, and detention.

He vehemently denied these allegations, asserting that they were baseless fabrications propagated by political rivals in an attempt to damage his reputation.

Emphasizing his commitment to upholding the law and the values expected of a community leader, Atoa reassured the people of East Malaita that the allegations against him were entirely untrue.

Regarding a specific incident involving a roadblock on April 21st, Atoa clarified that it was an isolated occurrence organized by his supporters without his knowledge. He explained that he was away in Auki at the time and only became aware of the situation upon his return to East Malaita. With the assistance of the Police Response Team (PRT) and Provincial Police Commander Leslie Kili, Atoa stated that the issue was peacefully resolved through dialogue with his supporters.

Atoa concluded his statement by reaffirming his dedication to serving the community with integrity and transparency, urging the public to disregard the misinformation and focus on constructive engagement for the betterment of East Malaita Province.

By William Ekotani

Island sun stringer  

BY INDY MAEALASIA

THE Attorney General says the extension of the liquor ban is legal, pointing out former Member of Parliament (MP) Christopher Laore’s continued role as caretaker Minister of Home Affairs until the election of a new Prime Minister.   

AG John Muria Jnr made the remark following public queries surrounding the validity of the ban as it was enacted by former MP Laore who has lost the Shortland Islands constituency seat in the recent National General Election (NGE).

“The caretaker executive is still exercising its powers under their relevant statutory legislation” he explained.

The AG’s remark is in accordance with the section 34(6) of the constitution which clearly outlined this.

The liquor Ban was initially imposed from April 16^th to April 26^th and has now been extended from April 26^th to May 15^th

Responding to queries on why it has not signature, Muria explained” A gazette is the official publication of any legal instrument the government makes. It reflects the original order; it is the original order that is signed” he remarked

“Gazette copies are not signed so that is why we won’t see a signature on the gazette. It is just an official publication of that order so once it is published, it becomes effective” Muria said.  

The announcement of the extension has generated mixed reaction on Facebook (FB) with some describing it as meaningless, a heavy financial loss for liquor shop owners and even calling for Police to toughen up on illegal homebrewing and Kwaso production.

However, a recent Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) press statement said that the extension was necessary for the election of the new PM.

“The extension of the liquor ban aligns with our commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment, formation of government and election of a Prime Minister by mitigating the risk associated with excessive alcohol consumption, we aim to foster an atmosphere conducive to the democratic process” the statement said. 

Muria made the clarification in the Talkback show broadcasted by SIBC yesterday.

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

THE two-week liquor ban has had a direct impact on businesses operating bottle shops and bars.

Deputy Commissioner Juanita Matanga acknowledges the loss of business, but emphasizes the importance of security considerations from the police perspective.

She highlights that this year’s joint elections remained peaceful and one of the positive impact is the implementation of the liquor ban, which prevent the expression of excitement and grievances that could lead to some issues. Moreover, excessive alcohol consumption poses safety risks.

As a result, the decision was made to close establishments such as bottle shops, bars, and nightclubs, which are known to potentially incite trouble. However, hotels, being a different category, are permitted to continue selling alcohol.

Matanga said the rationale behind this measure is to mitigate potential disruptions during elections that may arise from heightened alcohol consumption, leading to disturbances.

She said leading up to the formation of the Government authorities are not taking this decision lightly and will monitor the situation closely, and is prepared to make necessary decision whether to extend the liquor ban or allow the lift that is due today.

Police are committed to improving the situation for everyone, through collaborative efforts with the public and leaders to ensures safety and contentment for all.

The order, was effective from April 16 to April 26, mandates the closure of all licensed premises, bars (including nightclubs and bottle shops) in Solomon Islands, with the exception of licensed premises or bars within hotels or restaurants, which may serve liquor to bona fide guests.

BY MORRIS NAFU

Teasi Sanga, chairlady of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC), has officially announced the closure of the national joint election on Wednesday, April 24.

This declaration marks the conclusion of a crucial phase in the democratic process of the nation, with citizens exercising their right to vote for their chosen representatives.

Mrs Sanga made the announcement after SIEC successfully completed its final official announcements of election results with few constituencies, provincial wards along with Honiara City Council (HCC) wards.

She commend all participating organisations and individuals for successfully carrying out the first ever joint elections for both 50 national parliament seats, seven provincial assembly members and Honiara City Council (HCC) ward councilors excluding Western and Choiseul provinces.

Sanga highlighted the positive turn out of voters across the nation during polling day as citizens exercised their democratic right by casting their votes.

She acknowledged few setbacks in various logistical challenges and the complexities of organising a nationwide vote and that the SIEC are ready to welcome feedbacks from observers both international and local, from which they can improve and move forward.

“There are few feedback reports from observers that reached SIEC that shows positive feedback and we look forward receive more feedback reports from other observers,” she said.

“We will be looking forward to receive reports from the Observers reports as they will help us identify areas for improvement.”

She acknowledged stakeholders who have contributed in the successful election including international partners and donors, Australia Government, Australia Defence Force, New Zealand Government, NZ Defence Force, European Union, UNDP’s Strengthening the Electoral Sycle in Solomon Islands Project (SECSIP), International Foundation for Electoral System (IFES), International IDEA (Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance), Australian Electoral Commission, New Zealand Electoral Commission, media, national partners, Solomon Islands Government, observers, police and other service providers who have contributed during the course of the Election period.