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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.

MASI President urges support to empower Journalists for press freedom

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Some of the hardworking male journalists. Photo credit - MASI

BY NED GAGAHE

Geogina Kekea, President of the Media Association Solomon Islands (MASI), advocates for societal backing and empowerment of journalists, stressing the importance of safeguarding their right to report without fear and to uphold the principles of press freedom and freedom of expression.

Addressing a media breakfast event marking World Press Freedom Day on May 3rd, 2024, Kekea underlines the necessity of fostering an environment where journalists can operate safely and without undue interference, ensuring their invaluable contributions are duly recognized and honored.

The theme of this year’s World Press Freedom Day is ‘A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis.’ It 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 died in the pursuit of truth.

“As we celebrate the achievements of Solomon Islands’ media professionals today, let us also reaffirm our commitment to upholding press freedom and democratic values.

“Let us pledge to stand in solidarity with journalists around the world who continue to risk their lives in pursuit of the truth.

“Let us recognize that a free press is not just a cornerstone of democracy but a fundamental human right.” She said.

In conclusion, the MASI President expressed heartfelt appreciation to all those advocating for a free and independent media.

She said their unwavering dedication, support, and commitment are genuinely cherished and valued.

PETITION TIME IS ON

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Candidates, electors have 30 days to file, starting May 3

BY NED GAGAHE

The period for election petitions is on.

The election petition timeframe of 30 days began when the Electoral Commission (SIEC) officially announced the gazette election results on its website on Friday, May 3.

The window for election petition closes at midnight on Saturday, June 1, 2024.

SIEC confirmed yesterday to Island Sun that the window of 30 days for candidates participating in the joint election to lodge petitions with the High Court of Solomon Islands is now active.

According to Electoral Act election petitions can be filed within 30 days after the gazette to officially open this process to allow those who were not happy with the election results to file a petition seeking legal interpretation and action.

In accordance with Electoral Act, election petitions are permissible within a 30-day window following the gazette publication.

This process formally initiates the avenue for aggrieved candidates or individuals to lodge petitions, seeking legal action regarding the election results.

In the 2024 joint election, a notable participation was observed with a total of 334 candidates contested for seats across the 50 constituencies in the parliamentary elections.

Additionally, for the provincial and HCC wards, with the exception of Duidui Ward in South Guadalcanal a total of 905 candidates contested, comprising 816 candidates for provincial assemblies and 89 for the HCC. Initially, Duidui Ward had seven candidates nominated for the election.

Addressing queries regarding petition in a media conference on April 24, Jasper Anisi, the Chief Electoral Officer of SIEC, emphasised that individuals, including voters and candidates, retain the right to lodge an election petition through the High Court of Solomon Islands, challenging issues of undue election.

He said such petitions undergo transparent proceedings within the open court system, ensuring fairness and accountability in the electoral process.

“In accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, every individual retains the right to engage in the legal processes outlined within it.

“The Act outlines the permissible types of petitions that can be lodged to challenge electoral outcomes.

Emphasising the significance of this process, Anisi stressed that the High Court will ultimately decide on the merits of such complaints or allegations.

He said should the court find them lacking in substance, they reserve the authority to dismiss them (claims) as frivolous, meaning claims which are devoid of any arguable basis.

Meanwhile, Island Sun also understands that publication of gazette notice also initiates the beginning of the 90 days period for submission of candidates’ election campaign expenses.

“Within 90 days after the publication of an election result, a candidate in the election must submit to the CEO a statement of account specifying:

“(a) all expenses incurred by the candidate in relation to the candidate’s campaign for election; and

“(b) the source of all funds (including the amount received from each source) used to meet those expenses.

On Friday May 3, SIEC published the official results and gazetted copies of the 2024 joint election, on its official website www.siec.gov.sb.

According to the Electoral Act 2018: PART 8 PETITIONS RELATING TO ELECTIONS AND MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT

Section 108: Election petition

(1) An “election petition” is a petition to the Court (other than a status petition or vacancy petition) in which a person complains that a member of Parliament for a constituency was not validly elected.

(2) The following persons are entitled to file an election petition:

(a) an elector in the constituency to which the petition relates;

(b) a candidate for the election in the constituency.

(3) An election petition must be filed within 30 days after the result of the election is published under section 107.

(4) The Court may, when hearing an election petition, order the returning officer for the constituency to do any of the following:

(a) produce any invalid ballot papers;

(b) open and produce a sealed packet of counterfoils of used ballot papers;

(c) produce any counted ballot papers;

(d) produce any tendered ballot papers and the tendered votes list.

(5) Without limiting the circumstances in which the Court may find that an election is void, the Court must declare the election of a candidate void if it finds that the candidate was not qualified for election or was disqualified at the time of the election.

Section 109:  Status petition

(1) A “status petition” is a petition (other than an election petition or vacancy petition) on a question as to the right of a person to be a member of Parliament.

(2) The following persons are entitled to file a status petition:

(a) an elector;

(b) the Attorney-General.

(3) If the Court decides that a person who is a member of Parliament is not entitled to remain a member of Parliament, the person ceases to be a member on the date of the decision.

Section 110: Vacancy petition

(1) A “vacancy petition” is a petition (other than an election petition or status petition) on a question as to whether the seat of a member of Parliament has become vacant.

(2) The following persons are entitled to file a vacancy petition:

(a) a member of Parliament;

(b) the Attorney-General.

(3) If the Court decides that the seat of a member of Parliament has become vacant, the seat becomes vacant on the date of the decision.

Section 111: Procedures and rules for petitions

(1) The Court:

(a) must hear and decide a petition under this Part in open court; but

(b) may dismiss a petition without a hearing if:

(i) the petition is frivolous or vexatious; or

(ii) there are insufficient grounds to warrant the hearing of the petition.

(1A) The Court must decide a petition under this Part within 12 months after it is filed.

(2) The decision of the Court on a petition under this Part is final.

(3) The Chief Justice may, subject to this Act, make rules of practice and procedure in relation to petitions under this Part.

(4) Subject to rules made under subsection (3):

(a) the procedure at the hearing of an election petition, must (as near as possible) be the same (and the Court has the same powers, jurisdiction, and authority) as if it were a civil action; and

(b) witnesses:

(i) may be summoned and sworn in the same manner as in the hearing of a civil action; and

(ii) are subject to the same penalties for perjury.

(5) The Court must give a certificate of its decision on a petition under this Part to the Commission, the Governor-General and the Speaker.

Section 112: Non-compliance with this Act

(1) This section applies if it is established during a hearing of an election petition that, in relation the election concerned, there was:

(a) a failure to comply with the time required for doing anything under this Act; or

(b) an omission or irregularity in filling out a form required under this Act; or

(c) a lack of or defect in the appointment of an electoral official or polling or counting agent; or

(d) an absence of, or mistake or omission or breach of duty by, an electoral official before, during, or after polling.

(2) The Court must not declare the election invalid only because of the matter mentioned in subsection (1) if the Court is satisfied that:

(a) the registration of electors and the conduct of the election substantially complied with the Constitution, this Act and any other written law; and

(b) the matter mentioned in subsection (1) did not affect the result of the election.

Manele extends hand of cooperation to Wale

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MP Elect Mathew Wale and PM Jeremiah Manele

BY CAROL-ANNE SULEGA

IN a conciliatory gesture aimed at fostering unity and collaboration in the political arena, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele extended his acknowledgment and respect to Hon. Mathew Wale, the Parliamentary Wing Leader for the Coalition for Accountability Reform and Empowerment (CARE), and the opposition coalition.

Addressing Wale in his inaugural speech yesterday, Prime Minister Manele expressed his recognition of Wale’s candidacy for Prime Minister and the importance of the opposition’s role in providing checks and balances to the Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT).

“I also acknowledge the other candidate for Prime Minister, Hon. Mathew Wale, and the other coalition group,” Prime Minister Manele stated, affirming his commitment to inclusive governance and acknowledging the diversity of perspectives within the political landscape.

Manele expressed confidence in Wale’s dedication to serving the people and the country, despite their differing political affiliations. “Whilst we may be on opposing sides, we all have one ultimate purpose, and that is to serve our people and country,” he remarked, emphasizing the shared goal of national progress and development.

The Prime Minister concluded his remarks with a message of goodwill, invoking divine guidance for Wale and his colleagues as they discharge their duty to the people. “May God grant you wisdom in the discharge of your duty to our People,” Manele stated, underscoring the importance of wisdom and integrity in political leadership.

Manele’s outreach to the opposition signals a commitment to cooperation and constructive engagement, setting a positive tone for political discourse and governance in the nation. As both government and opposition work towards their respective goals, Manele’s call for unity and mutual respect lays a foundation for collaborative efforts aimed at advancing the interests of the people and the country as a whole.

‘Newly elected PM commends peaceful democratic process’

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PM Jeremiah Manele. Photo supplied.

BY CAROL-ANNE SULEGA

IN a historic moment for the nation, the newly elected Prime Minister (PM), Jeremiah Manele took to the podium,addressing the country after being elected by Members of Parliament in a session free from violence or disruption.

Manele, in his inaugural speech, emphasized the importance of upholding the democratic process and fostering a culture of peace and stability in the nation.

The country’s new PM stated that, gone are the days of tumultuous elections marked by acts of violence and destruction, as he thanked the parliamentarians for their confidence in him to lead the country forward.

Acknowledging the scars left by past election-related violence on the economy and livelihoods of the citizens, Manele stressed the need for a new era characterized by respect for the democratic process.

“Our economy and livelihoods have suffered because of this violence,” Prime Minister Manele remarked, alluding to the detrimental impact of political unrest on the nation’s prosperity. “However, today, we show the world that we are better than that.” Manele added.

The newly elected Prime Minister called upon the citizens to embrace a culture of respect for democratic institutions and the peaceful transfer of power, setting a positive example for future generations. “We must respect and uphold the democratic process of electing our Prime Minister,” he urged, “and set an example for our children and their children.” He fuurther stated.

Manele’s ascension to Prime Minister marks a significant milestone in the nation’s journey towards political stability and democratic governance. As he assumes leadership, all eyes are on Manele to deliver on his promise of steering the country towards prosperity while fostering an environment of peace, unity, and progress.

Japanese Embassy Palau: Stop Radiological Terrorism

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In the early hours of April 29, a man of Caucasian descent broke into the compound of the Japanese embassy in Palau with the intention of initiating a vigorous environmental protest against Japan’s fifth round of nuclear water discharges. The man allegedly sprayed an unknown red liquid mixture in multiple locations and hung protest banners in the embassy area parking lot. Pictures and videos taken at the scene show that the protest banner, which reads “stop Radiological Terrorism,” is about eight meters long with red characters on a white background.

The red liquid, which was found to be a mixture of paint and fish blood, stretched from the ground in front of the Japanese embassy to the entrance of the embassy. Officials from the embassy arrived on the scene following the incident. Tritium, a radioactive isotope and possibly other radioactive traces are present in the wastewater but Japan maintains that it is safe. It is a long-term environmental threat that could impact ecosystems all the way to North America, according to experts in neighboring countries.

Police are investigating but have not made any arrests in this case and embassy officials have refused to comment on this case. It could prove to be an embarrassment to Japanese Foreign Ministry political Secretary Masahara Komura who is currently visiting Palau.

PRESS RELEASE

Logging decreases for Malaita

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

MALAITA has registered waning logging activity across the province in the first quarter of 2024. It is a positive sign and evidence that the provincial forestry ordinance is at play.

The forestry ordinance was engineered by the Suidani-led MARA government aimed at incurring high fees for operations, as a way to stop logging operations in the province.

According to the provincial forestry office in Auki, only eight logging companies are operating in the province. Focus of operations are Are Are and Small Malaita regions as well as few in West Kwaio.

Compare the current number of operations to the previous years, this is the first time Malaita province to register a lowest number of logging operation in the past 3 or 4 decades.

Malaita province at one time in the recent past registered a staggering 21 active logging operations in the province just in a single year.

The lowest Malaita could reach per annum so far is 10, and now with 8, it’s a sign that resource owners begin to realize the importance of their resources.

The forestry office in Auki revealed the information to this paper, however a dull forecast is looming for the province as more applications logging operations are pending.

 “At the moment we are number of pending applications that if granted, it will surge number of operations for the province in the next couple of months.

“The current operation, although at 8, it doesn’t mean there is no potential operation. It is, but the number of operations expect for the province from now on will not that high as the past years.

“This is due to shortage of forest stock currently experience in the province as a result of over exploitation of forest resources by logging industry in the past years.”

The forestry office furthered that the focus of logging activities in Malaita province for the past years were; West Kwaio, Are Are, Small Malaita and Fataleka and West Kwara’ae.

These are the only regions in the province still have forest stock, but continue operation in these areas has reduced the stock to only few remaining.

In an attempt to curb the industry in the province, Malaita provincial government recently passed an ordinance to minimize logging operation and encourage forest resource management.

PM Manele pays tribute to Guadalcanal

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PM Jeremiah Manele. Photo supplied.

BY CAROL-ANNE SULEGA

IN a heartfelt address on Thursday, newly elected Prime Minister (PM), Jeremiah Manele extended his gratitude to the people of Guadalcanal for their generosity in hosting the capital city, Honiara, on their land.

Acknowledging the significance of this gesture, Manele emphasized the importance of honoring the past, present, and future traditional landowners of the area.

“I wish to pay tribute to the people of Guadalcanal for graciously giving up their land and allowing us to host our capital, Honiara,” Prime Minister Manele stated, expressing deep appreciation for the hospitality extended to the nation.

He reiterated his commitment to recognizing and respecting the rights of the traditional landowners, highlighting the need for unity and cooperation in fostering a harmonious relationship between the inhabitants of Honiara and the landowners.

Continuing his address, Manele called upon the residents of Honiara to demonstrate the utmost respect towards the landowners, recognizing their role as custodians of the land upon which the city stands. “Honiara has become home to many of us, and we must treat it as such,” he urged, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a sense of belonging and responsibility towards the capital city.

Prime Minister Manele’s call for unity and respect towards the landowners resonates deeply in a nation where issues of land ownership and rights have often been contentious.

By acknowledging the contribution of the Guadalcanal people and urging mutual respect, Manele aims to foster a spirit of cooperation and collaboration essential for the continued development and prosperity of Honiara and the nation as a whole.

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