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East Road upgrade project well underway

Written by
Samie Waikori
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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

AUKI

PROGRESS has so far been witnessed on the current road upgrade from Fosim market to Kware bridge along East Malaita Road in Malaita province.

The 21-kilometre road upgrade is implemented by Trades Transformation Company Ltd and funded by World Bank through the Ministry of Community and Aviation (MCA) and Ministry of Infrastructure and Development (MID) under the SIRAP program.

MPA for ward 15 of East Malaita constituency, Hon Edward Misite’e told SunAuki yesterday on the progress of the road-upgrade.

He said as of the weekend, a distance of 10 kilometers from Fosim market has been crated. Now, road-crating reaches Siskwa just before Kware bridge.

Misite’e said that graveling is next after the current road-crating and it seems the project will do in no-time considering the speed of work.

He said the current road-upgrade will be a relief to the deteriorated road condition faced along East Road since early this year.

“The situation has brought setbacks to public services like; education, agriculture, medicine and economic activities within the region.

“Now that work has begun on the 21km road from Fosim to Kware, people hope WB through SIG will also look at similar upgrade for road-segment from Kware onward.

“The deteriorated state of East Road extends from one-end to another and it would be pleasing to people if upgrade is done on the entire road,” Misite’e said.

However, he said that since the weekend traveling public of East Malaita are enjoying the current road upgrade and they thanked WB through SIG for the SIRAP program.

Misite’e said people appreciated the project, since it will bring back basic services they have been lacking in the region due to the situation.

He said the people eastern region look forward to the successful completion of the road-upgrade project and benefits they will achieve from it.

Finance Minister introduces 2024 budget bill in parliament

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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Minister Hurry Kuma

THE Minister of Finance and Treasury, Hon. Harry Kuma, presented the 2024 Appropriation Bill (2024 Budget) for its second reading in Parliament on Tuesday 25th October.

The proposed budget seeks parliamentary approval for an allocation of a total of Four Billion, Two Hundred and Nine Million, Nine Hundred and Eighteen Thousand, and One Hundred Fifty-Eight dollars (SBD 4,209,918,158) to finance government operations during the fiscal year ending on December 31, 2024.

The 2024 Appropriation Bill plays a pivotal role in setting annual limits on new government borrowing, a measure mandated by Section 66 (2) of the Public Financial Management Act of 2013. Under this legislation, two categories of permitted borrowing are outlined:

Borrowing by Way of Treasury Bills for Exceptional Circumstances: This category allows the government to secure funds through Treasury Bills to address unforeseen or exceptional circumstances.

Borrowing from Development Partners or Domestic Financial Institutions for High-Priority Initiatives: The second category enables the government to borrow funds for critical infrastructure and development projects from development partners or domestic financial institutions.

Importantly, the Bill establishes specific borrowing limits for each of these permitted categories.

Additionally, the 2024 Appropriation Bill includes provisions related to the issuance of advance warrants and contingency warrants by the Minister for Finance and Treasury during the fiscal year 2024.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the proposed budget’s financial policies and objectives, the Bill is meant to be read in conjunction with the Budget Papers provided to Parliament, including Budget Paper 1: Financial Policy Objectives and Strategies Statement.

Crucially, the Bill grants the Minister for Finance and Treasury the authority, in accordance with sections 55 and 56 of the Public Finance and Management Act of 2013, to issue a General Warrant to the Permanent Secretary of Finance and Treasury for an amount of up to Four Billion, Two Hundred and Nine Million, Nine Hundred and Eighteen Thousand, and One Hundred Fifty-Eight dollars.

Furthermore, the Bill enables the issuance of Accounting Warrants by the Permanent Secretary in line with Section 57 of the Public Financial Management Act of 2013. These warrants are detailed in Budget Paper 2: Recurrent Budget Estimates and Budget Paper 3: Development Budget Estimates.

In accordance with Standing Order 61(2), the debate on the 2024 Appropriation Bill has been adjourned.

This special adjournment was proposed by Prime Minister Hon. Manasseh Sogavare and is scheduled to reconvene on Monday, November 13, 2023.

During this adjournment, the Public Accounts Committee will scrutinize the Bill in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and Treasury and relevant government ministries and stakeholders before the parliamentary debate commences.

This marks a significant step in the Solomon Islands’ fiscal planning for the coming year, with a focus on prudent financial management and economic development.

New Act paves learning opportunities for all

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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Permanent Secretary for MEHRD, Dr Franco Rodie.

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA


THE Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development, Dr Franco Rodie, emphasized during the celebration of the Education Act that this marks the beginning of innovative teaching strategies for improvement.


“We are standing at a crucial juncture in the history of education in our country, where we must envision a new future for education, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive. We cannot afford to revert to the outdated education systems of the past,” stated Mr. Rodie.


Dr Rodie said he is confident that with the new Education Act and accompanying documents like the Education Funding Code, Administrative Instructions, and Learning Framework, will witness a significant enhancement in the quality of education, leaving a lasting impact on all learners.


While the commencement date of the Education Act is yet to be determined, along with its gazetting and approval of subordinate documents, our journey is far from completion. However, the collaborative efforts have already made a difference to our key education stakeholders and the beneficiaries of our education system—our children. Let’s roll up our sleeves and continue this journey with even greater dedication.


PS Rodie said reflecting on the progress made in just a decade, it is inspiring to think about the possibilities for the next ten years. A key takeaway from this achievement is the importance of intentional collaboration across all levels of the education system and with other key stakeholders and agencies supporting students, families, and teachers.


With the new Education Act, our ambitions for the next decade rightly shift from not only emphasizing Education for All but focusing on Learning for All.


“Today, we declare that, guided by the Education Act and innovative teaching and learning strategies, every child in every corner of our country should have the opportunity to attend school and enjoy the benefits of lifelong learning.


“We have the courage to assert that we can and must do better this time around. The Education Act, along with supporting documents developed by my Ministry in collaboration with development partners, underscores the importance of a child’s education and our commitment to achieving educational outcomes differently”, Dr Rodie said.


He also said while acknowledging the progress from the reform program, they also recognize that more effort is needed to turn the slogan of leaving no one behind into a tangible reality.

Man charged for grievous harm yet to take his plea

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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In-court

BY ROMINAH FAKA

DEFENDANT Junior Iro arrested and charged for one count of act causing grievous harm appeared in court yesterday to take his plea.

Defence counsel for the defendant informs the court that, he sends a proposal to the Crown regarding the charges however, Prosecution present in the court informs the court that they refused the proposal and maintain the charges.

Court adjourned to 1 November 2023 at 9 am for the defendant Iro to take his plead.  Bail extended for defendant.

Police alleged, on December 24, 2022, defendant Junior Iro did intended to cause grievous harm to the complainant by striking him with a knife.

Complainant upon fearing the defendant he went and reports the matter to the police, defendant arrested and charged for grievous harm.

Office of Public Prosecution appears for the Crown and PSO appears for the defendant.

Man sentence by court to fine $1,450 for using unlicensed Motor Vehicle

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

MATA Mae a 52 year old was charged for one count of using unlicensed motor vehicle one count of uninsured motor vehicle of third party insurance, one count of driving a motor vehicle without a driver’s license and one count of taking vehicle without authority of the owner.

Defendant presents in court yesterday before Magistrate Pauline Smith Taroimae and pleaded guilty to all four counts charged upon him by Police accordingly.

Prosecution informs the court that this is a fresh matter and defendant informs the court he will represent himself regarding his case in the court yesterday.

Court after hearing from both parties the charges, mitigating and aggravating factors provided to court by the prosecution and defendant himself, Court then sentenced the defendant to paid a fine of $ 1,450 dollars for penalty unit before due date on 17 November 2023 at 3 pm in the afternoon.

If the defendant did not pay the fine by the due date court orders, he will in default for 2 months imprisonment.

Court off the view that, this sentence will help defendant to learn from his mistake and this fine to teach him lesson not to commit such offence again in the future and shows seriousness of such offence.

Prosecution alleged that, on 5 October 2023 at half 11 am in the morning defendant Mata Mae was driving a motor vehicle to wit Silver Touareg Rav 4 registration no T -0507 along the Kukum Highway road in front Panatina Campus bus stop.

The traffic officers were at the time was mounting a traffic check on unlicensed motor vehicle and unlicensed drivers. The said vehicle was sighted and diverted into the checking bay for check. Upon checking that vehicle its vehicle license was already expired on 31st December 2021 and later that said vehicle was escorted to Kukum Traffic Centre for dealings.

Upon the arrival at the station by conformations in JIMS the vehicle license was expired on 31 December 2021 and the insurance also expired on 21 October 2022. As the name of the driver check through JIMS there is no record of his driver’s license.

The same day the owner called in at the station and gives his statement for not allowing his vehicle to be driven out by anyone. Later the defendant Mae formally charged and dealt with accordingly.

Police Prosecution appears for the Crown and defendant Mata Mae appear for himself.

Suspected protesters case mention in court

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

DEFENDANT Sade who charged with one count of Sedition Act, one count of involving in unlawful assembly and one count of arson of mine appeared yesterday in court before Presiding Magistrate.

Kwate’e pleaded not guilty to the charge following commencement of his trial yesterday at Magistrate Court.

After Ms. Luza who appeared for the Crown complete her case defence counsel for the defendant Mr. Harunari applied for no case to case.

Presiding Principal Magistrate delivered her ruling on the last mention of the matter and yesterday she informs both parties in the court that, she is yet to finalize the oral ruling by providing written copy to both parties on later date.

Court suspended to 2 November 2023 and bail extended for the defendant Kwate’e.

It was alleged on the 24th November 2021, Kwate’e led a group of people to protest at the Parliament House for the Prime Minister to step down.

Further alleged that, on the following day on the 25th of November, he assembled a group of people and procured them to set fire to the Naha Police Station.

This happens during the three days of violence in Honiara which left Chinatown destroyed and business houses and shops in Honiara looted and set on fire.

Naha Police Station was looted and also set on fire, but fortunately was put out by the Naha Community.

The violence flashed by the protestors who against the Government decision to switch tries from Taiwan to China.

Three days of violence started on 24th November 2021 saws looting and arson of business houses and shops.

Three people died.

Around 200 peacekeepers from Australia, Fiji, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea were deployed to Honiara to help restore law and order.

Office of Public Prosecution appears for the Crown and Public Solicitor officer appear for the Defence.

Minister Tanangada unveils Education Act 2023

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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Minister of Education and Human Resources Development

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

MINISTER of Education and Human Resources Development, Lanelle Tanangada, emphasizes the transformative impact of the Education Act 2023 on shaping the educational landscape.

The Act serves as a modernized framework aimed at enhancing access to, quality, and management of early childhood, primary, and secondary education, along with elevating the teaching profession.

Minister Tanangada said the Education Act 2023 aspires to cultivate an education system fostering an understanding and critical appreciation of moral, spiritual, religious, social, and cultural values pivotal in shaping Solomon Islands society. These values, recognized and respected within the community, underscore the Act’s commitment to promoting cultural identity and societal harmony.

She said the Act is dedicated to instilling values and attitudes that contribute to societal well-being, nurturing personal identity, self-esteem, and an awareness of one’s abilities and limitations. Moreover, it endeavors to ensure equal educational opportunities for all, particularly addressing the needs of the disadvantaged through comprehensive support encompassing economic, social, physical, and mental factors.

She also highlighted the key objectives of the Act include the development of intellectual skills, encouraging a spirit of inquiry, and fostering critical analysis of issues. It aims to instill qualities of self-reliance, innovation, initiative, and imagination among students, equipping them not only for personal success but also for meaningful contributions to the country’s economic development.

The Act focuses on creating citizens characterized by tolerance, responsibility, care, and political awareness, well-versed in their rights and responsibilities. It underscores the importance of nurturing an acute awareness of national heritage, identity, and a profound respect for the environment among young Solomon Islanders.

PAYMENT QUESTIONED

Written by
Samie Waikori
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When will 5 million dollars outstanding payment for WDG be paid?

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

AUKI

A Member of Provincial Assembly of Malaita province questions the Fini led government on when to release the 5 million outstanding arrears of ward development grants to 33 wards in the province.

The question was raised with less hope whilst the current term is nearing lapse and no assurance is coming from the current regime on the fund.

The MPA, who is from the non-executive side said the delay of the fund is a blow to Ward Development Committees who have been working tirelessly to support people in the province with the fund.

He said the delay has also seems to disregard the voluntary work carry out by WDCs to draw up work plans to implement the fund in their wards.

The MPA said that common Malaitans are the ones will suffer most from the delay of the fund, since it is their money and they want explanation from the current government.

He said it is obvious that to gather the sum of money by now is challenging, however MPAs through their WDCs especially people need assurance on the fund.

According to MPG, the arrear is a built-up from 2021/2022 to 2022/2023 financial years, which started incurred during the former regime.

MPG said since 2021/2022 financial year, Ward Development Committees (WDCs) haven’t fully paid their ward development grant until now.

They explained that lots of areas had contributed to the slow-payment of WDGs or its delay and they as follows;

  • Delay by WDCs to retire ward grants
  • Slow delivery of service grants (15% contributed to WDG)
  • Funding of unbudgeted activities
  • Weak internal revenue collection

MPG said ward grant depends on the internal revenue of the province as it contributes up to 85 percent of its total budget.

They said for the past two financial years, revenue collection has been hindered by lots of areas like covid-19 and challenges faced on its revenue mobilization strategy.

According to MPG this is the area needs to strengthen, although the province doesn’t have strong internal revenue based like other provinces.

However, they said MNGFR is behind the issue and if sufficient fund is available, they will pay the 5 million ward grant arrears to 33 wards in the province.

6 men await sentence on arson case

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

Six men accused of burning a dwelling house in east Guadalcanal are awaiting their sentence.

Their case was mentioned yesterday for sentencing, however, their defence lawyer did not turn up.

Court also heard that the Public Solicitors Office had lost one of its senior members, which may explain the lawyer’s absence.

Court therefore suspended the case for Wednesday, October 25.

The six men had earlier pled guilty to the charge of arson. Their remand warrants were extended yesterday.

Prosecution had told court that between May 10 – 11, 2022 at Bulokalai Village in Aola area, East Guadalcanal the six men; Philip Raeni, Eddie Leua, Daniel Naghata, Philip Kona, Charlton Kukiti and Lington Saki burned down four houses and a kitchen belonging to an elderly person and his family members.

The men said their actions were in retaliation to what they claim was the victim having practised sorcery which had led to the death of the men’s relative.

Office of Public Prosecution appears for the Crown and Public Solicitor Office appears for the defendants.

Building proper sanitation is critical for all households

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

ENSURING that every household in the Solomon Islands has access to proper toilets is a critical goal.

WASH Specialist Issifu Adama said the commitment of the Solomon Islands Government to achieve this objective by 2030, and with seven years remaining, the UNICEF-supported WASH program is playing a crucial role in implementing the government’s strategy.

Adama highlighted the importance of public awareness regarding the necessity of proper toilets in every household in the Solomon Islands.

He pointed out that only 35% of people have access to basic sanitation services, and 45% still defecate in the open. Significant disparities also exist in the access to basic sanitation services between rural and urban areas. For instance, access to basic sanitation in rural areas is at 21%, compared to 78% in urban areas; OD 58% rural and 4.4% urban. Open Defecation reduced from 61% in the year 2000 to 45% in 2021. Over the same period, the population using unimproved sanitation facilities surprisingly remained unchanged.

Moreover, the population having access to basic sanitation has seen only a 15% increase over the last two decades, from 20% in the year 2000 to 35% in 2021.

In certain communities, the WASH program has already been launched, and encouragingly, residents are taking ownership, signifying positive progress.

Adama said the construction of proper sanitation facilities is followed by ongoing monitoring to declare communities Non-Open Defecation zones. Post NOD monitoring is a crucial step to ensure that communities maintain good sanitation and hygiene practices, allowing them to ascend the sanitation ladder.

Adama also said the UNICEF WASH program is committed to helping the Solomon Islands achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

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