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Tanangada lauds PM Sogavare’s leadership, thanks Opposition Leader for oversight role

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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Minister of Education and Human Resources Development

BY NED GAGAHE

Minister for Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD) Lanelle Tanangada has praised the leadership of Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and Leader of Official Opposition for their outstanding leadership.

Speaking during the Sine-Die Motion in Parliament last week, Minister Tanangada said Prime Minister Sogavare deserves great recognition for his outstanding leadership.

Tanangada said under the able leadership of Prime Minister the country has made historical strides whereby political stability is evident and the stability has come about due to the strength and unity of elected leaders of the DCGA government and their commitment to build this nation.

“Sir, I would also want to thank the Hon. Prime Minister for his great leadership. And I like how Solomon Islander a true son of North Malaita perfectly describes our Honorable Prime Minister in his article in The Island Sun on 2nd December 2023.

“And allow me to quote “lest we forget, among other debatable issues, Solomon’s history, will remember this martial art star, instructor, musician, church leader and politician from Choiseul province as intelligent, outstanding, forward looking, dynamic change maker, brave and steadfast.”

“Sir, the Hon. Prime Minister mentioned in his opening debate to this motion, that he was the most hated Prime Minister, swore at, his life was at risk with his family at times, even threatened to death.

“But I would like to say that to the eyes of a true Solomon Islander, a patriotic Solomon Islander, one who understands his or her culture and customs, we should add four times accord great respect for anyone amongst us who is a leader.

“My Hon. Prime Minister deserves that great recognition for his outstanding leadership. And let me echo that Solomon Islands through the leadership of the honorable Prime Minister, and with the support of the committed members of parliament in the DCGA government, Solomon Islands has made historical strides whereby political stability is evident, and that stability has come about due to the strength and unity of elected leaders of the DCGA and their commitment to build this nation.

Acknowledging the oversight role of the Opposition Leader Mathew Wale and the Opposition group, Minister Tanangada said, “Thank you, for ensuring that the government delivers according to its policies, and that you have played your oversight role dutifully, more specifically in the due diligence of scrutinizing the bills and reports that are tabled in Parliament.

“Though many times it means taking risk, but always protect the interests of this beloved nation. Mr. Speaker, Sir, let me thank the Leader of the Official Opposition and the Members of Parliament in the Opposition bench.

“Thank you, Honorable Leader of Opposition, for always supporting women in leadership and seeing the potential that women have to work with men for a common good.

“Sir, I could join other honorable members of this house to sincerely thank the Honorable Leader of the Independent and Members of Parliament on the Independent bench for the work you have done in supporting the government in your votes where your people’s voice must be heard.” Minister Tanangada said.

Auki police raids kwaso makers at Fiu

Written by
Samie Waikori
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PPC Malaita, superintendent Lesley Kili.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

AUKI

AUKI police have raided a kwaso production site at Fiu village in the suburb of Auki town, Tuesday this week.

The raid was made possible through the support of Fiu community where a substantial amount of kwaso products was confiscated.

PPC Malaita, superintendent Lesley Kili said yesterday the raid was conducted on the afternoon of Tuesday after they were tipped-off by members of the community.

He said the raid was carried out and unfortunately the suspect escaped with the cooking apparatus whilst police confiscated kwaso products worth around $2,000.

Kili said although the suspect has evaded arrest, police have gathered all his details and will continue to follow-up until his arrest.

He warned that the raid is a caution to whosoever is brewing and producing kwaso wherever in and around Auki town.

Kili said a number of kwaso hotspots is known in and around Auki and they will get there in a matter of time.

He also called on communities to take-up similar initiative to what Fiu community did by working together with police to combat crimes in communities.

Kili said combating of crimes should be everyone’s business and one way to combat it is by working together with the police.

He said this will ensure all homes and communities are peaceful, harmony and safe from illegal activities that only brings negative atmospheres in the community.

Tei’ifi advocates support and cooperation for Bina Harbour development project

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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Claudius Tei'ifi, member of Parliament for West Kwaio Constituency. Photo supplied.

By EDDIE OSIFELO

Claudius Tei’ifi, member of Parliament for West Kwaio Constituency, is urging comprehensive support for resource owners as they prepare to participate in the proposed Bina Harbour development project, a significant initiative set to take place in Malaita Province.

Tei’ifi emphasised the importance of providing substantial support to resource owners in their preparations for involvement in the project.

He stressed that as the relevant Ministry and various agencies proceed with the technical paperwork for project development, it is crucial to ensure resource owners receive assistance and are not left to navigate the complexities on their own.

“In carrying out the development of the different technical paperwork by the relevant Ministry and different agencies that are involved in the project, I request that adequate support must be rendered to the resource owners in their preparation to be part of this project development. Preparation by the resource owners must be supported. They should not be left alone to sort themselves,” said Tei’ifi.

Additionally, Tei’ifi appealed to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and particularly the Provincial police in Auki to be vigilant and responsive in addressing potential criminal activities that may attempt to disrupt project activities.

“We do not want to see the actions of a few selfish individuals disturb the program and project activities on the ground. On that, I call upon my good people of West Kwaio, especially those living around the Bina Harbour area, to respect our laws and those working on the project,” he emphasized.

Tei’ifi underscored the importance of resolving grievances through proper channels rather than resorting to unlawful actions.

“We are people of culture, where respect is the cornerstone of our culture and heritage. So I call upon my good people to refrain from causing disturbances that will only ruin your character and good standing in our communities,” he added.

As the Bina Harbour development project progresses, Tei’ifi’s call for support, cooperation, and adherence to the law echoes the need for a collaborative effort to ensure the success and smooth implementation of this vital initiative in West Kwaio Constituency and the broader Malaita Province.

Court grants variation in case against trio accused of armed robbery

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case against three men accused of armed robbery has had a variation granted to one of them.

It was mentioned in court for a bail variation regarding Hudson Susumae, one of the three accused, and court granted the bail variation application.

February 2, 2024 has been set as the first mention date for Mr Susumae.

Dickson Fito’o, Sio Wale and Susuamae were each charged with one count of armed robbery.

They have pleaded not guilty, and their trial is set to begin next year.

The defence counsels submitted to the court the bail variation application for his client Susuamae. After court looked through the bail variation application, presiding Chief Magistrate Emma Garo granted the application to allow Susuamae to return to his home village for the Christmas and New Year holiday.

Court extended bail for Susuamae.

It was alleged in the early hours on January 20, 2023 the trio entered the Holiday Resort Motel armed with bush knives.

One of the defendants also wounded a victim who is a Chinese national. The men then allegedly escaped with $100,000 including Chinese currency notes.

Police have recovered a hand bag during the arrest of the three defendants but a huge portion of the money is yet to be recovered.

Public Prosecution appears for the Crown and Public Solicitor Officer appears for the Defendants.

BLACK MARKET CRACKDOWN

Written by
Admin
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Chinese embassy urged to address alleged illegal business operations

George Kosui, former permanent secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour, and Immigration, has called on the Chinese Embassy in Honiara to assist responsible authorities in addressing alleged illegal business activities by the owner of ZLS shop, Xie Xinbin.

In a letter dated 21 December 2023 to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) Ambassador, Kosui claimed that Xie is allegedly operating a cartel for the distribution of goods in the country.

His assertions are based on a thorough online check and consultations with various authorities, including Company Haus, Inland Revenue Division, Guadalcanal Province, and Honiara City Council.

According to Kosui’s findings, ZLS has not registered with the Company Haus, rendering its operations illegal in the country.

The former permanent secretary highlighted concerns about the lack of proper identification for the company, with closed storage rooms, and limited accessibility for customers.

Additionally, the four full-time workers and four casual workers employed by ZLS are reportedly not registered with the Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF).

Kosui’s investigation also revealed that several Chinese nationals arrived in the country on November 10, 2023, purportedly to work as unskilled labourers and subsequently establish shops to expand an alleged illegal distribution cartel and syndicate.

He alleged that ZLS is involved in distributing goods to retail shops, with proceeds sent to the owner, Xie, in China.

Money transfers are claimed to be conducted through other shops as part of this arrangement.

In his letter, Kosui expressed concern about potential anti-Chinese sentiments, urging the Chinese Embassy to take appropriate actions to address the issue and ensure accountability for those violating the country’s laws.

He identified an individual named Lanny as the accountant and advisor in these alleged illegal activities.

“This letter is submitted to your office to take appropriate actions to address this issue so that we don’t have any other things which might ignite anti-Chinese feelings against genuine PRC citizens doing business in the Solomon Islands as investors,” stated Kosui.

Kosui highlighted that responsible authorities, including Company Haus, Inland Revenue Division, Solomon Islands Financial Intelligence Unit, Solomon Islands National Provident Fund, Guadalcanal Province, Honiara City Council, and Solomon Islands Institute of Accountants, have been informed of this alleged illegal business activity.

As of press time, attempts to contact ZLS shop and the Chinese Embassy were unsuccessful.

The matter remains a subject of ongoing investigation and public interest.

Police remind public on security during festive season

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

THE Royal Solomon Islands Police Force issues a stern warning to the public, particularly in Honiara, urging them to be vigilant and prioritize the security of their valuable items.

Thieves and burglars tend to exploit the festive season, making it crucial for residents to take preventive measures.

Police said as always, an experience during festive seasons, the unfortunate trend of home robberies and break-ins becomes an all-too-common experience for residents in Honiara. In response to this, the police are reminding the public of practical steps they can take to safeguard their belongings.

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force assures the community that they will be actively working over the Christmas period to ensure the safety of individuals and their families.

However, they emphasize the importance of collaboration from the public to enhance overall security and residents are encouraged to always keep valuable items in inside pockets of clothing or bags and be mindful of their surrounding while out shopping.

Police also warned vehicle owners not to leave their bags of valuable items in their vehicle while out shopping and always lock vehicles properly.

ENDS///

Riot case adjourned

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

Judgment into case of a woman accused of behaving in a riotous manner and stealing from the Tobacco Company Limited has been adjourned.

It was adjourned to December 27 for judgement to be delivered.

Joy Hamui is charged with one count of behave in riotous manner and one count of simple larceny and pleaded not guilty to both counts. Trial was conducted last month November 6, 2023.

Yesterday Ms Hamui appeared in court for her judgment however, the presiding magistrate was absent. Thus, her matter was adjourned.

Bail was extended for the defendant.

Court heard that during the riot in November 2021, Hamui was assembly with others in a riotous manner to enter the gate of the Solomon Island Tobacco Company.

She and others entered the gate into the office and took cartons and sleeves of tobacco products from the Solomon Islands Tobacco Company Limited.

The manner was reported to the police and Hamui was arrested and charged accordingly.

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

Willful damage case adjourned

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case against a man charged with one count of willful and unlawful damage and one count of intimidation has been adjourned.

It was suspended yesterday in the magistrate court for Thursday next week for court to deliver the defendant’s, John Laulae, sentence.

Yesterday prosecution called the matter in court for sentence, but the presiding magistrate was absent.

Thus, the matter was adjourned. Court extended the remand warrant for the accused.

It was alleged Laulau, while he was employed by the China civil engineering corporation construction (CCECC) as a causal worker, on October 26, 2022 was drunk and shot the Chinese construction workers with stones and entered the CCECC campsite opposite Karaina settlement at Whiteriver.

Matter was later reported to the police and Laulae was arrested and charged.

Police prosecution appears for the Crown and PSO appears for the defendant.

GAMES CONTRACTORS NOTICE

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

NHA advises last payments this week, if not, next year

BY NED GAGAHE

Contractors of the 17th Pacific Games not yet paid for their services could wait until January next year.

Last payments will be made this week. Remaining ones will be paid next year.

The National Hosting Authority (NHA) for the Sol2023 Pacific Games has assured that its staff are working around the clock to ensure contract sums for services are paid.

However, NHA says any payment not cleared this week will be left until “after Christmas and New Year”.

This is because their office will be closed on December 22 and open back for business on January 3, 2024.

“NHA wishes to inform the contractors that the Games Organizing Committee Functional Areas and NHA Secretariat staff are working around the clock to ensure all contract sums for services that helped our nation deliver successful 17th Edition of the Pacific Games are paid.

“We adhere to strict procurement processes so it is taking our team a bit of time to process payments but most of the payments will be cleared this week.

“Unfortunately, any payment that is not cleared this week will have to be left until after Christmas and New Year. Our office will close on the 22nd December and will open back for Business on the 3rd of January 2024.

“We regret any inconvenience this may cause to any contractor but our staff deserve to take a break.

“We guarantee that all contractors who supported this nation to deliver successful pacific games that are not paid before Christmas will get paid their dues when the office opens back for business in the new year.

“NHA Secretariat wishes to take this opportunity to wish all individual, contractors, their staff and families, a merry Christmas and prosperous New Year 2024.” NHA said in a statement.

China commits to assisting Solomon Islands

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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0

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

New Peoples Republic of China (PRC) Ambassador Cai Weiming has said China will continue to provide assistance to Solomon Islands to the best of its ability.

He assured that China will continue to share opportunities from China’s path to modernisation.

The ambassador highlighted the aim to create greater synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative and the 2035 Development Strategy of Solomon Islands.

“We will stick to the pursuit of win-win cooperation and make the cake bigger,” Mr Cai said.

He highlighted the focus of China’s support includes the development of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure projects in Solomon Islands. Additionally, China aims to promote the export of more competitive Solomon Islands agricultural and fishery products to China, support rural livelihoods, and deepen police and security cooperation with Solomon Islands to contribute to social and economic development.

Cai expressed a dedication to enhancing people-to-people exchanges and consolidating the friendship between the two nations.

China plans to facilitate sub-national cooperation, strengthen exchanges with local provinces and cities, and expand the circle of friendships between the two countries.

“We will propel the momentum of people-to-people exchanges and consolidate the friendship between our two people,” Cai said.

China will continue to facilitate the sub-national cooperation, enhance exchanges with local provinces and cities, and expand the circle of friendships between our two countries.

“In our four years of relationship, PRC has done much for Solomon Islands and our people.

“I have been on two official visits to China in this short period already, and on these two occasions, I had fruitful face-to-face discussion with your President Xi Jinping,” Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said.

Sogavare emphasised that the benefits derived from these discussions will continue to positively impact the people of Solomon Islands in the future.

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