By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The newly elected member of the assembly for West Baegu/Fataleka ward 5, Norman Suidani, thanks his people for their support and for believing in him. 

He said he is filled with joy that the people of West Baegu/Fataleka ward and his family members believe in him and have put their trust in him to lead them. 

He promised to work closely with the members of his community to serve their needs. 

“As I was elected the winner today, I am very happy and thank my family, communities, and everyone in my ward.

“It shows that they have believed in me and put their trust in me by voting for me,” he said.

Suidani claimed the position as a Malaita provincial member of the assembly with a difference of 37 votes. 

According to the declaration, he received the highest number of votes, totaling 479, while his runner-up, Polycarp Erekwato, received 442 votes. Dick Futaimalau is holding the sixth position with 24 votes.

The total number of registered eligible voters for West Baegu Fataleka Ward Five is 2,846, while only 1,595 cast their votes, and 1,251 did not cast their votes or remain untouched.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY IRWIN ANGIKI

The majority opposition coalition yesterday criticised the Prime Minister’s decision to leave the country in the midst of the ongoing court case and a court order.

The coalition in a statement yesterday said PM Jeremiah Manele had ‘ignored the court decision to convene parliament’ which is a ‘blatant disregard for a lawful court directive’.

The Prime Minister’s Press Secretariat has said PM Manele’s trip overseas does not breach the court order.

“The Attorney General has officially filed a Notice of Appeal to the Court of Appeal regarding the recent High Court judgment. In conjunction with this, an Application for a Stay of Execution has also been filed and recently granted by the Court of Appeal.

“Now that the case is before the court of appeal, and the ‘stay of execution’ granted, we will now await the Court of Appeal outcome. No comments with regards to opposition’s accusation. The PM will return tomorrow,” Press Secretary Georgina Kekea said.

It is worth noting that PM Manele left on Wednesday. The file for appeal and stay was done the same day. The court of appeal hearing for the stay application was done yesterday [Thursday] at 3pm. The application was granted.

Meanwhile, the opposition coalition statement said:

“The three days will lapse tomorrow [today, Friday, April 17] and it is irresponsible of the Prime Minister to ignore the court orders.

“The Prime Minister has departed the country in clear defiance of a court order requiring Parliament to be convened within three days. This raises profound constitutional questions regarding compliance with binding judicial directions and the obligations of the executive under our democratic system.

“It is an international embarrassment that a Prime Minister that has already judicially determined to be unlawfully occupying office while leading a minority government, continues to act in a manner that demonstrates disregard for constitutional accountability, institutional integrity, and public trust.

“Such actions reflect a serious erosion of leadership responsibility and are incompatible with the standards expected of lawful constitutional governance,” the coalition said.

Prime Minister Manele had left for Fiji for the Troika meeting in Suva. The Solomon Islands Prime Minister is the current chairman of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, and head of Troika.

“He left for Fiji yesterday for a one-day meeting in his capacity as the Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) to chair an urgent Troika meeting. He is due to return to the country tomorrow, Friday,” PM Press Secretary Kekea told Island Sun yesterday.

On Tuesday this week the Chief Justice ruled in favour of the Opposition coalition, upholding their judicial review claim of the current political impasse created when PM Manele refused to call parliament for the matured motion of no-confidence against him to be debated.

Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer in court gave two options for the prime minister – either resign or call parliament within three days starting that day and lapsing today [Friday, April 17].

The judgement also recognised the Governor General’s residual power to call parliament in the event that the prime minister failed to abide by court order and call parliament within the three days.

The Attorney General, acting for the prime minister, filed an appeal the next day [Wednesday, April 15] and application for a stay of execution on the court order for PM Manele to call parliament within three days.

Yesterday [Thursday, April 16] the court of appeal granted stay on the court order made by the High Court on Tuesday. [See separate story]

The opposition coalition is with 28 MPs and PM Manele is ruling with a minority government of 22 MPs.

The political impasse is in its fifth week.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The anticipated mid-April increase in fuel prices is expected to be implemented shortly.

A relevant source within the Price Advisory Committee (PAC) under the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labor and Immigration (MCILI) told this paper yesterday.

“We are yet to receive monthly pricing template submissions from the country’s two main fuel importers, South Pacific Oil (SPOL) and Markwarth Oil,” the spokesman said.

Speaking in an interview yesterday a spokesperson within the SPOL who wishes to remain anonymous said they should have filed their template submissions by yesterday.

“We are doing our template submission today (Thursday 16) but the PAC has decision on what dates when the price will be increased,” he said

A female spokesperson from Markwarth Oil also shared similar sediments via phone call yesterday afternoon.

She said that Markwarth Oil already submitted their template to the Price Advisory Committee (PAC).

“I’m aware that we submitted our templets already. That’s what I’m aware of. So, they are waiting for the SPOL. They will then establish new price once they have received these submissions. It’s probably tomorrow (today),” she said.

Edward Bamu Secretary of PAC, early this month confirmed in an interview that a fuel price adjustment will come into effect mid-April.

“This is to ensure that fuel prices do not come as a shock to consumers,” he said in an interview.

“Assuming the Middle crisis continues, May price will be affected because they are based on March Mean of Platts (MOPS). We are trying to spread some of the increase into April so that prices rise gradually,” he said.

He said the actual fuel price adjustments will depend on submissions from South Pacific Oil Limited (SPO) and Markworth.

“However, the general outlook is that prices will rise,” he said.

Sir Dr Jimmie Rodgers, Secretary to the Prime Minister for Special Duties, had forewarned of this significant increase in fuel prices in May during the Prime Minister’s fortnightly press conference on Sunday, March 22.

Mr Rodgers said the anticipated rise is due to a sharp increase in global fuel prices.

Despite the looming increase, Rodgers assured public that government is working on measures to cushion the impact.

Rodgers said discussions are ongoing with the country’s two main fuel importers, South Pacific Oil (SPOL) and Markwarth Oil, to strengthen supply capacity and stability.

“Once the Price Advisory Committee reviews and adjusts the current pricing, we will expect a jump,” Rodgers said.

Government of Tuvalu has declared a State of Public Emergency for Funafuti, warning that unstable electricity systems and fuel supply risks are threatening essential services nationwide, the Pacific News Service (PINA) said on Monday.

PNIA adds that the declaration takes effect from April 13, 2026 and shall remain in force for a period of 14 days unless sooner revoked or varied.

Photo: Supplied

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Dr Chester Kuma, the former head of Surgeon of Solomon Islands has highlighted the importance of taking care of the heart.

Speaking during a health awareness session on the 10,000 Toes campaign official Facebook page, Mr Kuma said that poor lifestyle choices can lead to life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks.

He said that human heart begins beating as early as four weeks in the womb and continues tirelessly throughout a person’s life, beating an estimated 2.5 billion times by the age of 70.

“That’s absolutely amazing, and it shows why we must take good care of our heart,” he said.

Kuma explained that the heart relies on two key arteries, the right and left coronary arteries to function properly.

“When these arteries become blocked, it can result in a heart attack, which can be fatal,” he said.

He highlighted several major risk factors contributing to heart disease, particularly in Pacific communities.

“These include high consumption of fatty foods such as lamb flaps, lamb chops, corned beef and sausages. Excess sugar intake is another concern, as unused sugar in the body is converted into fat, increasing the risk of artery blockage.

“Lifestyle habits such as cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption were also identified as harmful, as both can damage the coronary arteries over time,” Kuma said.

He further said that being overweight significantly raises the risk of heart disease, while diabetes remains one of the leading contributors to heart attacks.

He said that it is important for those living with the condition to manage blood sugar levels.

“Regular exercise and healthy food choices were strongly recommended as key preventive measures. Individuals with a family history of heart disease and those aged 50 and above to be especially mindful of their health, as the risk of heart attack increases with age,” he said.

He said that making the right choices now can help reduce the chances of developing serious heart problems later in life.

Photo: Supplied

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

Norman Suidani, son of the late member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) for West Baegu Fataleka and former Premier of Malaita Province, Daniel Suidani, has replaced his father becoming the new MPA for ward 5.

This was announced by the Returning Officer for the West Baegu Fataleka ward by-election, Sonia Fiumae, yesterday afternoon at the Malaita Provincial Assembly chamber, Green House.

Suidani received a total of 479 votes; Polycarp Erekwato (second) with 442 votes; Stephen Irofoa (third) with 340 votes; Robinson Ratu (fourth) with 240 votes; Ronnie Hendry (fifth) with 70 votes; and Dick Futaimalau (sixth) with 24 votes.

The officials witnessed the declaration and counting of ballot votes yesterday at the assembly house, including the Electoral CEO, officials, Transparency Solomon Islands observers, and the country’s aid donor partners.

Ms Fiumae congratulated and applauded the other contesting candidates for upholding peace, unity, and respecting the democratic laws and processes.

“Now I, Sonia Fiumae, the Returning Officer for West Baegu Fataleka Ward Five By-election in Malaita Province, in accordance with the provincial assembly and Honiara City Council election regulations 2024, hereby declare that Norman Suidani has received the highest number of valid votes and is duly elected as the member of the West Baegu Fataleka Provincial Assembly,” she said. 

Island Sun understands that the ward election processed peacefully, smoothly, and respectfully.

Photo: Supplied

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY IRWIN ANGIKI

Commissioner of Lands Alan McNeil has resigned.

Mr McNeil made the sudden announcement on Wednesday evening on Linkedin.

“This week I’ve resigned my role as Commissioner of Lands for the Solomon Islands Government,” McNeil said in his post.

“It’s been a great honour to serve this country in this role for eight years, and at the Ministry of Lands for the last 12 years.

“I have given three months’ notice as required by the public service General Orders,” McNeil said.

McNeil did not cite any reasons however gave an insight to the demanding nature of the position.

“It’s a highly challenging role and it has brought plenty of ups and downs along the way,” McNeil’s post said.

McNeil in his Linkedin post wishes his successor the best.

“I will be providing detailed hand-over notes and I will wish the next Commissioner well in this role,” McNeil said.

McNeil has declined to comment when the paper reached out to him yesterday.

McNeil has been credited with restoring transparency and trust to the office of the commissioner of lands, which was once dubbed as one of the most corrupt government institutions.

He has overturned many cases of fraudulent land acquisitions.

McNeil as commissioner of lands is heading the ambitious government compulsory acquisition programme of the Levers Solomons Limited (LSL) which has seen court challenges and has made a lot of powerful political figures uneasy.

McNeil has had several key wins in court during his tenure.

He successfully took back all of Pari Development Company’s land in Noro through two High Court rulings.

These cases involve hundreds of hectares of prime land surrounding Noro town in Western Province, which was given to the company as a 10-year grant of profit by a former Commissioner, then converted to consent orders and grants of 75-year Fixed Term Estates during another former Commissioner’s tenure.

All of that land is now back in government hands, although the company’s appeal against one of those High Court rulings is still pending before the Court of Appeal, 12 months after it was filed.

For the freed-up land, the Solomon Islands Government through the Ministry of Commerce is already planning UXO clearance and a new subdivision, and Soltuna is also understood to be interested in developing a higher standard residential compound for its workers.

McNeil also resumed the land for the new Noro Ministry of Finance complex, and successfully defended against a High Court claim that challenged that resumption.

In November last year, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Service suspended McNeil on the basis of allegations made against him in relation to the land where the Kongulai water source for Honiara is located.

The allegations were made by Bodo Dettke, who became a joint owner of that land title after an agreement and lease variation were signed by the landowners and the government.

McNeil was reinstated just two weeks later without explanation given in relation to those allegations.

In a media conference shortly afterwards, Assistant Commissioner of Lands Maelyn Lubasia admitted to making a mistake on a lease variation instrument, and the Attorney General John Muria Jnr explained to media that the mistake did not constitute fraud in any case.

In 2023, the High Court ruled in favour of McNeil against the Solomon Star newspaper, that defamatory articles had been published about him, and awarded McNeil $70,000 in damages.

It is understood that McNeil has two further defamation claims involving the Solomon Star newspaper pending before the High Court, as well as a pending claim against the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Service and the Chairman of the Public Service Commission in relation to his suspension in November last year.

Photo: Supplied

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY JUNELYN KELLY

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with provincial governments.

He made the statement during a meeting with provincial premiers in Honiara on Wednesday, a press statement by the Press Secretariat from the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) yesterday said.

The premiers are in Honiara this week for their quarterly discussions.

Major reforms such as the review of the Provincial Government Act and continued support for Provincial Assembly members were the key issues discussed during the meeting between PM Manele and the premiers.

The statement said the premiers also reiterated their support for the national government.

They highlighted the importance of collaboration in delivering services to people in the provinces.

The premiers also acknowledged the government’s timely response to the disaster to provinces affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila.

Manele concluded the meeting by thanking the premiers for their ongoing partnership and commitment to serving the people of Solomon Islands.

Photo credit: Press Secretariat, OPMC

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

BY ALICE CAMPBELL

Police have reassured the public, business community and visitors that the security situation in Honiara remains calm and stable and that police operations are continuing.

In a statement yesterday police reiterated its call for the public to remain calm and continue with daily activities as normal.

Police say it understands that the public may have questions or concerns due to the ongoing legal and political developments, and urges the public to seek information from official and verified sources.

The statement said the police wishes to reassure everyone that the situation remains calm and public order is being maintained as police operations continue.

Acting Commissioner Mathias Lenialu said police fully respects the Constitution, the courts and the rule of law.

“Legal processes, where they apply are part of democratic governance. RSIPF’s role is to maintain peace, safety and order, irrespective of political and legal proceedings.

“RSIPF is actively policing and monitoring the situation. As part of ongoing operation, RSIPF maintains its high visibility, foot patrols and mobile patrols across Honiara and surrounding communities to ensure community safety.

“RSIPF supports the rights of individuals to express views peacefully and within the law and will take appropriate action where any conduct threatens public safety or public order,” the statement said.

The court case over the current political impasse continues, with the next hearing to be held on Wednesday next week, which will be the hearing of the Attorney General’s appeal to the High Court’s ruling on Tuesday ordering Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele to call for parliament among other directives.

Yesterday, the court of appeal granted the attorney general’s application for a stay to the high court’s order.

Photo: Supplied

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]