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Airline welcomes lifting of  pre-flight 72-hr PCR test

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Press Release
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New CEO of Solomon Airlines, Gus Kraus.

Solomon Airlines has welcomed the Solomon Islands Government decision to remove the mandatory 72-hour covid-19 PCR test requirement for international visitors, prior to entering the country.

In a statement, the airline’s Chief Executive Officer Gus Kraus said the decision is timely, given the current status and evolving phase of the pandemic and now that Solomon Islands international borders are open.

“Solomon Islands has been rightly cautious in the interests of public health, however this is an evidence-based decision and we now join most countries in our region, and around the world who have now lifted these requirements for entry.

“It is the right decision at the right time and will help Solomon Islands to move forward again, as we start to steadily rebuild our tourism industry,” he said.

Travellers to the Solomon Islands who are not citizens of Solomon Islands, must be fully vaccinated and show proof of complete vaccination against Covid-19.

Solomon Islands Nationals who are fully vaccinated, must also show proof of complete vaccination upon entry to the country.

Solomon Islands Nationals who are unvaccinated are able to return to Solomon Islands, but will still be required to show proof of a negative PCR test 72-hours prior to arrival in Solomon Islands.

Peacebuilding policy achieves milestones since establishment.

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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The roundabout at the Honiara City Council

By EDDIE OSIFELO

THE Solomon Islands National Peacebuilding Policy (SINPP) has achieved some milestone since Cabinet endorsed it in 2015.

Deputy Director of Policy Planning, Philip Sikabuka outlined this during the SINPP review consultation workshop with the mainstream media and Government Communication officers in Honiara yesterday.

Sikabuka said from the 2016 SINPP consultations roll out on mainstreaming the policy with the Provincial Governments, it resulted in the formulation of Provincial policies aligned to the SINPP.

He said also, three creations of positions for Traditional Governance in the Provincial Offices such as the Central Province.

“The creation of Focal Points in Provinces with no MTGPEA provincial office in Lata, Kirakira, Buala and Renbel.

“Since 2016, the Ministry has expanded its coverage to the provinces with the linkages it has established to improve Provincial and National Coordination, “he said.

Furthermore, the main policy and planning frameworks endorsed by Cabinet in 2021 namely;

  1. The National Policy on Conflict Prevention and Victims Rights (Reparation),
  2. The National Policy Reintegration of those involved in the past conflict,
  3. The Solomon Islands Government and Solomon Islands Ecclesiastical Institutions Strategic Partnership Framework (SIEISPF) 2021-2025,
  4. The submission of the TRC Matrix and claims matrix to the Office of the Prime Minister fulfils the Ministry’s responsibility in this post conflict era.
  5. The Traditional Governance and Customs Facilitations Bill (TGCFB) 2018 starting in 2019-2022,
  6. The establishment of the Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs Division (PEAD) in 2021, and
  7. The MTGPEA Corporate Strategic Plan 2020-2023 and the Ministry Annual Reports 2016-2021.

Furthermore, Sikabuka said the Choiseul and Western Province’s TG systems and structures have been formally established and registered under the Charitable Trust Act.

He said these provinces are now working capacity building.

“Management and Leadership trainings have completed.

“The remaining provinces have yet to reach the stage like Western and Choiseul. Western and Choiseul have also published their own custom books that contain all traditional laws and genealogies of their people,” he added.

SCALE supports Bonale and Adakoa projects

Written by
Samie Waikori
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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Auki

THE USAID SCALE programme continues to support Adakoa Fisheries project in East Malaita and Bonale Pineapple Factory in West Kwaio constituency.

Premier Daniel Suidani recently told the public of Auki after Malaita Province Infrastructure Advisory Committee (MPIAC) held its 18th meeting with Green Power Technology under the SCALE program last week.

“We have a meeting with the SCALE and they assured us of their strong support behind Adakoa fisheries and Bonale pineapple factory project as well as other projects they earmarked for the province,” he said.

Suidani said recently a team from SCALE visited the communities of Arabala and Bina within Bonale area in West Kwaio and had fruitful discussions with them on the pineapple project.

He said the project is progressing and a team of advisors will be in the province next month to pursue further development progress of the project.

Suidani said during the meeting as well they discussed Adakoa fisheries project which is one of the priority projects under USAID SCALE.

He said discussion on the project reached its construction stage where work on the project will soon be unfolded.

Suidani said progress is also on other USAID SCALE projects in the province like Gwaigeo processing facility and Auki Cold Storage facilities as well as Luaniua wharf in MOI.

The premier assured of MPG’s strong support behind projects and activities of the SCALE program in Malaita province.

Director of Neptune Gale ordered to appear before court

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

HIGH court judge Justice Maelyn Bird has adjourned the case of the Director of Neptune Gale to October 31 for mention to allow Prosecution time to prepare the consent order for payment.

The company’s director, Timothy, is facing charges under marine laws.

This is for allegedly allowing his vessel, MV Neptune Gale, to operate without valid documents.

Justice Bird also made directions for Timothy to be summoned to appear on that date.

Public Prosecutor Olivia Manu informed the court yesterday that the prosecutor in carriage of the case, Vernon Taupongi, is currently in Auki for court circuit and sought adjournment to allow prosecution time to prepare the consent order.

Ms Manu said Prosecution has just received the draft consent order for payment this week from the Director of SIMSA and the prosecutor in carriage need time prepare the orders and have them filed to the court.

Marine authorities claimed MV Neptune Gale did carry passengers without a passenger safety certificate around November 2014.

Prosecution and defence tug at intimidation case

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

Does pulling out a bush knife, swearing and threatening someone qualify as having intent to intimidate or not?

Defence and prosecution wrangled over this in court, Tuesday.

Tony Aufanua is facing one count of intimidation in relation to an incident on June 18 this year.

His lawyer has submitted in court that prosecution has insufficient evidence to prove the charge.

Delilah Kukurah, of the Public Solicitor’s Office, says her client had no intention to intimidate the complainant.

She adds that it was only after the complainant had shouted at her client that he pulled out the bush knife.

However, police prosecutor Iete Tebakota maintains that Aufanua’s actions at the time of incident shows that he had intention to intimidate the complainant.

Tebakota said the court must consider issues that during the offending the defendant was holding a bush knife and use swearing words towards the victim, that caused fear on the victim.

Therefore, he submits that prosecution is certain that the defendant had caused fear on the victim and being intimidated by the actions and approaches of the defendant.

The defendant Aufanua is charged with one count of intimidation in relation to the incident that occurred on June 18, 2022.

Prosecution said the defendant did swore at the victim and then threatened the victim with a bush knife.

Deputy Chief Magistrate Ricky Iomea after the submission was made adjourned the case to October 18 for judgment and bail for the defendant is extended to that date.

72-hour PCR test no longer needed

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Press Release
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Honiara International Airport

The Cabinet-approved removal of the 72 hours PCR test for covid-19 requirement for incoming travelers to Solomon Islands took effect yesterday.

A Government statement said the removal follows the signing of amendments, which was published in a Gazette by the Minister of Commerce, Industries, Labour and Immigration Frederick Kologeto.

This means that effective from the date that the Minister signed the Gazette, incoming passengers by air [and sea] no longer need to undertake a pre-departure PCR test.

“However, passengers who feel ill prior to departure are strongly advised not to travel until they are better,” the statement said.

Cabinet on October 6 approved the removal of the 72 hours PCR test prior to entering the country.

Since the re-opening of borders on July 1 and the subsequent expiry of the State of Public Emergency (SOPE) on July 24, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services stepped up its surveillance and database, which indicated isolated cases of covid-19.

The trend towards evidence-based approaches to restrictions reflects the evolving nature of the pandemic also help restore confidence in travel while help keeping both visitors and tourism workers safe.

Evidence shows that current travel restrictions are primarily effective at the early stage of the pandemic and may help to delay a pandemic, however, the effect of travel restrictions decline over time, as cases are inevitably imported.

Most countries around the world have either lifted or have partial requirements for entry without and have adopted different models of approach such as easing of burden on health facilities.

In terms of the likelihood of importation of new variants and starting, a new wave of outbreak in Solomon Islands is low while vaccination coverage of atleast one dose for those 18 years and above currently stands at 70 percent while for double doses at 53 percent.

Only travelers who are not citizens of Solomon Islands must be fully vaccinated with proof of complete vaccination against covid-19 requirements are permitted to enter the country while Solomon Islands Nationals who are unvaccinated can enter the country subject to proof of negative PCR test 72 hours prior to entering the country.

Noble: UK closely connected to Pacific

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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Acting Bristish High Commissioner to Solomon Islands Nicola Noble (R) taking to KGVI School Principal Dr Lionel Kakai

BY EDDIE OSIFELO

UNITED Kingdom shares close connection with the Pacific despite the vast geographical location.

Acting British High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Nicola Noble stated this during the King George Sixth Platinum Jubilee (70 years) Anniversary on Sunday.

The theme of the celebration was “celebrating 70 years of leadership and scholarship excellence since 1952”.

Noble said the UK and the Pacific sit on opposite sides of the globe – we are quite literally oceans apart.

“At first glance, you would expect those oceans, the geographical distance, the differences in size and economy, to result in narrower relationships.

“But in fact, the opposite is the case. While the distance is great, the connections are close. We have more in common than that which sets us apart,” she said.

“We are all island nations with long seafaring traditions.

“We have strong historical connections.

“We are nations built on the shared values of democracy, the rule of law, human rights and good governance. We are members of the Commonwealth.

“And we all share a commitment to finding global solutions to global problems. To working with and through the Rules-Based International Order.

“And to working together to address the existential threat that is climate change, and to protect and preserve our oceans,” she added.

Noble said following COP26 the UK committed to several large programmes on Climate Change and the Blue Economy where the Pacific can directly benefit from UK Aid, including: £40m for Small Island Developing States Capacity and Resilience; £274m for Climate Action for Resilient Asia; £500m Blue Planet Fund; £36m Sustainable Blue Economies fund, and £250m Forest Governance Markets and Climate Programme.

She said the UK has also committed £15m to the Pacific through its Conflict, Stability and Security fund to support Pacific Island Countries to address the sources of instability, transnational threats and to promote peace and security.

However, Noble said “we are living in interesting times”.

She said the tectonic plates of geopolitics are shifting under our feet – here in the Pacific as indeed they are elsewhere.

“There is a growing consensus – though not yet universal – of the existential challenge of climate change, and the pollution of our seas.

“But we are in the foothills of efforts to tackle those challenges. Economic, climate and political resilience are more important than ever – and nowhere more than in the Small Island Developing States of the Pacific.

“That is why the UK continues to strengthen our partnerships and engagement in the region. Combining our power, influence and expertise, we will work in partnership with our Pacific friends on the basis of our shared values, as we all seek to protect and preserve this beautiful world that we live in,” she said.

Governor General Sir David Vunagi and Minister of Education and Human Resources, Lanelle Tanangada were among guests that attended the celebration.

Western Province beefs up security  at MSG building, Gizo.

Written by
Ben Bilua
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The MSG building in Gizo.

BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

WESTERN provincial administration has beefed up security at MSG Building in Gizo following a vandalism incident last week.

Report reaching Island Sun says doors of incomplete toilet facilities that is constructed under CAUSE project were broken.

In his post on Forum Gizo Facebook page, Acting Provincial Secretary of Western Province, Patrick Toiraena condemned the act and calls on Gizo residents to be responsible and respect such important facilities.

He said such facilities is very important for the general public and must be respected at all times.

“We complain about the unavailability of public restrooms for public use and other important facilities for our use and still we do not seem to appreciate what others are doing for us to help improve Gizo, being our provincial Headquarter.

“What I am advocating for is let us all be responsible and play our part by respecting and taking care of such public properties built through the kind assistance of donors and stakeholders for our use!

“The least we could do on our part is look after them as our way of appreciating their goodwill!

“I appeal to us all to please respect and take care of such facilities built for our use and benefit,” Toiraena said.

He said the entire Provincial Head Quarter including the MSG is part of the area secured by WPG Security officers and a strong advice has already been issued to officers following the incident to step up their vigilance to deter any further or future wilful damage to public properties within the provincial HQ precinct.

“WPG may have to take some serious restrictive measures to protect MSG and its supporting facilities and whilst it may affect some of our market vendors, we cannot continue to entertain such disruptive behaviour which will only serve to disadvantage those innocent ones who rely on MSG for their use, especially after hours,” Toiraena said.

Suidani disappointed with dispute causing ablution block relocation.

Written by
Samie Waikori
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Auki wharf in the provincial town of Auki, Malaita province.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Auki

Premier Daniel Suidani has expressed disappointment at a project for Auki wharf, which was forcefully relocated due to land dispute.

An ablution block was supposed to have been built at the Auki wharf under the CAUSE programme.

But, dispute between landowners of the Auki seafront led to its relocation to the Aligegeo sports ground.

Speaking during an awareness talk last week, he said Malaita provincial government is working to bring development to the province.

And, the ablution project was an example of the many projects Malaita’s development partners are willing to bring to Malaita.

In this case, it is the CAUSE programme, which the Malaita provincial engaged to implement the project.

He said over the past weeks they liaised with CAUSE on that particular project and unfortunately the project was halted due to land dispute.

“We didn’t feel happy about some of us who especially contributed to the dispute of this very important development for Auki wharf and Malaita province.

“If this project was not disputed, it would be a boost to other services that are currently provided in Auki town.

“MPG feels that when it is charging levy on the shipping services to the province, they through partners must help to improve services under the industry to people.

“When our people transiting through Auki wharf, they need a place to have their shower or use sanitation for their comfort.

“This is the reason for putting up the project so that people enjoy services provided at the wharf as well as a boost to shipping service to Auki,” he said.

ELECTION EXPENSE PLEADING.

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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Taro to face court today

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

A man accused of failing to submit his expenses during the National General Election in 2019 will enter plea on October 13, 2022.

This is the case of Mathew Taro of Makira province.

Yesterday, his case was listed for plea however due to reasons raised in court his case was adjourned to October 13.

Taro was a candidate in the 2019 National General Election (NGE). He wass alleged to have failed to submit his statement of account.

Candidates who fail to make submissions were investigated and then were reported to the Police by the Solomon Island Electoral Commission. The Candidates were charged for failing to submit Election Expenses and Donation, contrary to section 125 (2) as read with section 69 (1) (a), (b) and section 107 (1) (b), (2) of the Electoral Act 2018 and section 9A (1) as Electoral (Amendment) Regulation 2019.

Police said after the Electoral Act 2018 was passed, it strengthened the Electoral Commission thereby making it eay as much as possible among other functions to deal with all complaints and breaches that come before it.

 Police said that compliance with section 69 was one of the requirements which account must be delivered within 90 days of the declaration of the election result.

Office of the Director Public Prosecution appears for the crown on the matter.

Meanwhile, candidates who contested the recent West Kwaio Constituency by-election in Malaita have until 26 December 2022 to file their expenses.

Acting Chief Electoral Officer Fredrick Bosoboe said as of yesterday, the six contestants have only 76 remaining days.

“Along with these election campaign expense accounts, the law also requires, candidates to disclose, all sources of funds or donations received towards their election campaign activities,” Bosoboe said

“Candidates must disclose sources of funds from which they received funding supports and as well as give detail report on how these funds were spent,” he added.

“These election campaign expense accounts must be submitted on a special prescribed approved form that can be collected from Electoral Commission office either in hard or soft copy or can also be downloaded online from Electoral Commission Official Website, www.siec.gov.sb .

“There are two forms that will be used to submit these expenses. 

“The first one is for the submission of all the expenses and the second one is the declaration form to certify the integrity of your report. 

“This declaration must be signed by the candidate and attached with the expense report.”

Mr Bosoboe highlighted that, failure to comply with these requirements by law, results in heavy penalties. 

“If a candidate fails to submit his or her election campaign expense accounts within the 90 days given period, he or she is in breach of the electoral law and would face a penalty of $20,000 fine and or 2 years imprisonment.

“On top of that, for each day that a candidate fails to submit the report after the lapsed of the 90 days period, he or she will be charged extra $100 fine for everyday he or she fails to submit after the lapsed of the 90 days given period.

“To avoid paying accumulation of this $100 unit each day for failing to submit, candidates are encouraged to must submit within this 90-day given period.”

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