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CATEGORY 4

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Tropical cyclone Maila intensifies and turns around heading northeast, warning for Western Province

BY LORETTA B MANELE

Tropical Cyclone Maila is now Category 4 and intensifying.

TC Maila has also made a U-turn from its south-west path and now heading northeast.

The tropical cyclone warning is active for the Western province.

Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) Tropical Cyclone Warning Number 12 issued at 7.30pm yesterday said the cyclone was now 167km southwest of Rendova island.

SIMS said at 5pm yesterday, tropical cyclone Maila with a central pressure of 951 hectopascals was located near 9.9 degrees latitude south and 156.4 degrees longitude east.

SIMS said this location is approximately 90 nautical miles (167km) southwest of Rendova Island, Western Province.

On Monday, April 6 Maila was 263km southwest of Ranongga, Western Province, and moving southwest – away from the country and towards PNG.

SIMS said Maila was south of Western province in the Solomon Sea and slowly moving northeast, and intensifying.

Gale force winds of 34 to 47 knots (63-70km per hour) over whole of Western Province with very rough seas and moderate to heavy swells of 3.5 to 6 metres with coastal flooding and widespread heavy rain and thunderstorms is also expected.

SIMS said for other provinces, winds are expected to reach 20 to 25 knots (37-46km per hour) increasing to 33 knots (61km per hour) over Choiseul and Isabel provinces with moderate to rough seas and moderate swells (2.5-4.0 metres) and potential coastal flooding.

Heavy rain at times and thunderstorms over the remaining provinces is also expected.

SIMS said such bad weather may lead to possible landslide and flooding over communities living near hill slopes, close to large rivers, streams and low-lying areas.

Sea travellers are urged to consider safety actions as such heavy rain can reduce visibility.

Meanwhile, motorists are also advised to be extremely cautious when travelling on the road.

“Do not attempt to cross rivers and large streams of unknown depth.

“People should take precautionary measures as bad weather associated with the severe tropical cyclone poses threats to lives and properties.

“Please share this information to people with disabilities”, SIMS advised.

SIMS urges the public to listen to SIBC and all media outlets for further updates.

In the past days and yesterday people in Choiseul and Western Provinces have shared with Island Sun videos and pictures displaying the damages tropical cyclone Maila has caused in their coastal communities.

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Cyclone Maila heading towards Western province

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Tropical cyclone Maila has intensified and is now category 4. And it has U-turned and is now moving towards the Western province.

Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) issued a Tropical Cyclone Warning Number 12 at 7.30pm today alerting that Western province is under cyclone warning.

On Monday, Maila was 263km southwest of Ranongga, Western Province, and moving south west – away from the country and towards PNG.

This evening, at 5pm, SIMS said Maila is 167km southwest of Rendova, is now slowly moving northeast.

SIMS is monitoring the situation and updating the nation. Listen out via radio and follow on facebook for weather updates from SIMS.

See below SIMS latest update

TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING NUMBER TWELVE

TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING NUMBER TWELVE ISSUED BY THE SOLOMON ISLANDS METEOROLOGICAL SERVICE AT 7:30PM THIS EVENING, TUESDAY 07TH APRIL 2026.

A TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING IS CURRENT FOR WESTERN PROVINCE.

SITUATION: AT 5:00PM THIS EVENING, SEVERE TROPICAL CYCLONE MAILA (CATEGORY FOUR) WITH A CENTRAL PRESSURE OF 951 HECTOPASCALS WAS  LOCATED NEAR 9.9 DEGREES LATITUDE SOUTH AND 156.4 DEGREES LONGITUDE EAST (9,F ON TRACKING MAP). THIS IS LOCATED APPROXIMATELY 90 NAUTICAL MILES (167 KILOMETERS) SOUTHWEST OF RENDOVA ISLAND, WESTERN PROVINCE.

SEVERE CYCLONE MAILA IS SLOWLY MOVING NORTHEAST, SOUTH OF WESTERN PROVINCE IN THE SOLOMON SEA AND INTENSIFYING.

EXPECT GALE FORCE WINDS OF 34 TO 47 KNOTS (63-70 KILOMETERS PER HOUR) OVER WHOLE OF WESTERN PROVINCE WITH VERY ROUGH SEAS AND MODERATE TO HEAVY SWELLS (3.5–6.0 METRES) WITH COASTAL FLOODING AND WIDESPREAD HEAVY RAIN AND THUNDERSTORMS.

ELSEWHERE (OTHER PROVINCES), EXPECT WINDS TO REACH 20 TO 25 KNOTS (37- 46 KILOMETERS PER HOUR) INCREASING TO 33 KNOTS (61 KILOMETERS PER HOUR) OVER CHOISEUL AND ISABEL PROVINCES WITH MODERATE TO ROUGH SEAS AND MODERATE SWELLS (2.5-4.0 METERS) AND POTENTIAL COASTAL FLOODING.  EXPECT HEAVY RAIN AT TIMES AND THUNDERSTORMS OVER THE REMAINING PROVINCES.

SUCH BAD WEATHER MAY LEAD TO POSSIBLE LANDSLIDE AND FLOODING OVER COMMUNITIES LIVING NEAR HILL SLOPES, CLOSE TO LARGE RIVERS, STREAMS AND LOW-LYING AREAS. 

SEA TRAVELERS ARE URGED TO CONSIDER SAFETY ACTIONS AS SUCH HEAVY RAIN CAN REDUCE VISIBILITY.

MOTORISTS ARE ALSO ADVISED TO USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN TRAVELLING ON ROAD. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CROSS RIVERS AND LARGE STREAMS OF UNKNOWN DEPTH.

PEOPLE SHOULD TAKE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES AS BAD WEATHER ASSOCIATED WITH THE SEVERE TROPICAL CYCLONE POSES THREATS TO LIVES AND PROPERTIES.

PLEASE SHARE THIS INFORMATION TO PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES.

PLEASE LISTEN TO SIBC AND ALL MEDIA OUTLETS FOR FURTHER UPDATES.

THE NEXT TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING WILL BE ISSUED AT 1:30AM AFTER MIDNIGHT TONIGHT.

RSIPF ensures smooth traffic flow during Easter

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

The National Traffic Department (NTD) of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) worked tirelessly on April 4 to manage traffic at the busy Honiara Central Market (HCM).

Officers were deployed as part of the Easter operation to ensure safe and orderly road use despite heavy congestion at the bus stop and junction leading to the market, a statement from RSIPF said.

Police urged passengers to wait inside designated bus bays rather than at entrances, and reminded bus drivers to pick up and drop off passengers only at the proper points.

This measure is aimed at reducing traffic jams and improving safety for all road users, RSIPF said.

The Easter operation also extended beyond traffic management with RSIPF Maritime Department which patrolled Point Cruz harbor to safeguard boat operators, while Guadalcanal police conducted vehicle checks at Alligator Creek, near the eastern side of the bridge, the statement said.

RSIPF said these coordinated efforts are designed to promote safer conditions on both land and sea during the Easter period.

Photo credit: RSIPF

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Police thank Honiara community leaders for maintaining peace

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) thanks community leaders and the general public for maintaining peace during the high court ruling between the new coalition and the government on 4 April.

A statement from RSIPF yesterday said community leaders and the general public’s ongoing support and understanding in maintaining peace within Honiara and the country as a whole must be acknowledged.

RSIPF said the peaceful situation has enabled our leaders to perform their respective mandated responsibilities without fear or intimidation, especially during the recent court sittings.

The statement noted that Deputy Commissioner (DC) Operation Mr. Simpson Pogeava said the understanding and cooperation of community leaders and the general public is much appreciated and he requests their ongoing support.

DC Pogeava said the community’s commitment to respect and to the judicial process is so crucial to maintain peace that prevails within our capital.

He also said that as we navigate this uncertain situation, we will encounter a lot of challenges and he urges good citizens and the people of the Solomon Islands to remain focused on embracing unity and promoting a peaceful environment for everyone to enjoy.

DC Pogeava appeals to all good law-abiding citizens in Honiara and throughout the country to respect the outcome of the next court sitting, which is to take place tomorrow, Wednesday, 8 April.

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Strong wind warning issued across Solomon Islands

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) has issued a Strong Wind “What To Do” Information following Tropical Cyclone Warning released by the Solomon Islands Meteorological Services at 7.30am yesterday.

The advisory, which applies to all provincial waters across the Solomon Islands, warns that strong winds may cause rough seas and damage to buildings.

NEOC said the warning will remain in effect until an official cancellation is issued, urging the public to take safety precautions seriously.

Village leaders and families are advised to remain indoors as much as possible and ensure vulnerable members of their communities are informed.

People are encouraged to secure their homes, avoid going out to sea, and take shelter if caught outside.

The NEOC also warned of flying debris, falling tree branches, and dangerous waves that could sweep people off their feet even along the shoreline.

Motorists have been cautioned to take care, particularly when overtaking high-sided vehicles, and to remain inside their vehicles if struck by fallen power lines.

At sea, mariners are urged to avoid travel during the bad weather and to take extra precautions if journeys are necessary, including informing others of travel plans and carrying safety supplies.

The NEOC further advises the public to monitor updates through SIBC and other FM radio stations and to share information with people living with disabilities to ensure community-wide awareness.

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PRC-funded Auki Road Project nears sealing stage

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The PRC-funded Auki Road Network Rehabilitation Project in Malaita province is progressing steadily, with major works now entering the final preparation phase ahead of asphalt sealing.

Contractor China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) is preparing to begin sealing works on the China Aid project, which will cover the stretch of road from Kilu’ufi Hospital to Kwaibala Bridge, including 16 feeder roads across Auki.

The upgraded road will feature a 50-millimetre-thick pavement, designed to serve Auki town for the next 10 to 20 years.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), the contractor is currently installing heavy-duty, concrete-lined drainage systems along the entire 9.2-kilometre road network.

These reinforced drains are essential to manage surface runoff and protect the road from erosion, forming a key part of preparatory works.

Despite facing delays due to unpredictable weather and utility relocations, construction continues to move ahead at pace.

A recent mid-term inspection conducted by an expert panel reviewed key components of the project from culverts to environmental compliance and awarded it an excellent rating for both quality and safety.

Collaboration remains central to the project’s progress, with CCECC working closely alongside MID’s civil engineering team, the Malaita Provincial Government, and local service providers including Solomon Power, Solomon Water, and Solomon Telekom.

The project is also delivering local benefits, with approximately 250 workers mostly Malaitans currently employed and gaining valuable technical skills alongside international experts.

Meanwhile, last week Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele officiated the handover of several newly completed infrastructure projects in Malaita Province.

These included the Kolofe 1 and 2 bridges along the North Road, as well as the Su’u and Bira bridges along the South Road, all constructed under the Solomon Islands Road and Aviation Project (SIRAP).

Prime Minister Manele also announced that an additional USD 41 million has been secured from the World Bank to support further infrastructure development in the province.

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2 other bridges need attention in Malaita’s south road

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

While applauding the World Bank, the national and provincial governments for the successful construction and funding of the Su’u and Bira bridges in West Kwaio, it is important to note that two other bridges need to be fixed before the full connection of the South Road can be realised.

This comes after the successful handover of the Su’u and Bira bridges on Wednesday last week. 

A concerned Su’u community elder, Jack Aimaua, said they appreciate the upgrade of the Su’u and Bira bridges which connect them.

He said that the two bridges will greatly ease the road challenges faced by communities, students, and traveling passengers, providing more efficient, safer, and easier road access. 

“We really thank and appreciate the provincial and national governments, as well as the World Bank, for funding these bridges. This has resolved our challenges that we have faced for so long,” he said.

However, Aimaua said there would be better road access and connectivity for the people of West Kwaio and Are’are if a bridge is proposed for the Kwari’ekwa River and if the Heo Bridge in West Are’are is repaired and upgraded.

He said the Kwari’ekwa River is the only river that connects the South Road to Su’u and West Are’are. 

“Kwari’ekwa River is the last and widest river that provides South Road access to West Are’are. We are sad that the provincial, national, and even the donor partners have overlooked this river,” he said. 

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Tehiahua urges strategic approach in implementing provincial budget

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Premier of Temotu Province, Stanley Tehiahua, calls on the provincial government to adopt a strategic approach in implementing the recently approved SBD $19,723,102.56 budget.

He made the appeal in light of ongoing political instability in the country and global tensions, particularly the conflict involving the USA, Israel and Iran.

During last week’s debate on the SBD $19 million budget, Tehiahua raised concerns and urged caution in its execution.

“While I support this budget, it is crucial to acknowledge the realities that may affect its implementation,” the premier said.

Tehiahua noted that political uncertainty at the national level could directly impact the province’s budget execution.

“Political instability often results in delays in decision-making, disruptions in program implementation, and reduced investor confidence,” he explained.

He also highlighted the economic risks posed by global conflicts involving USA, Israel and Iran and future development to the conflict.

“The ongoing tensions and wars can disrupt global supply chains, increase fuel and commodity prices, raise government procurement costs, and place additional pressure on our already constrained budget,” he said.

The premier emphasised that these external factors are beyond the province’s control and require the province to be prudent, strategic and disciplined in the implementation of the budget.

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We will adhere to any decisions made by the High Court: PM

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele said Government will adhere to any decision made the High Court in light of the ongoing court case between the Government and the new opposition coalition.

He made the statement during his first ever press conference held outside of Honiara when he recently visited Malaita province to attend a series of handover of major infrastructure projects and ground breaking ceremonies.

PM Manele said that he is aware of the discussion around the continuing political developments including the court case.

“I am aware of public discussion regarding recent political developments, including the filing of a Judicial Review application in the High Court. Let me be clear: Government continues to function. Ministries are operating, public servants are at work, and the 2026 Budget is being implemented,” he said.

He said that the government has confidence in the independency and impartiality of the courts.

“We have full confidence in the independence, integrity, and impartiality of our courts. We respect the constitutional process and will adhere to any decisions made by the High Court. I urge all Solomon Islanders to remain calm, act responsibly, and allow the judicial process to proceed without interference.

“Our system is guided by the Constitution. Until that process takes its full course, the Government will continue to carry out its responsibilities and focus on delivering for the people,” he said.

The Prime Minister encourages all Solomon Islanders to remain calm and respectful as work continues for the betterment of all Solomon islanders.

“The work we are doing whether in Malaita or elsewhere is about building a better future for our country, our children, and future generations. Let us continue forward together with a sense of purpose, responsibility, unity, and faith,” he said.

Photo credit: Press Secretariat, OPMC

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Court to hear judicial review and strike-out

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The High Court on Wednesday, April 8, will hear the opposition coalition’s judicial review claim alongside an application filed by the Attorney General to strike out the case.

The strike-out application was filed on Thursday, April 2, but had not been served or deliberated by the parties in court.

The application to strike out was recalled by the AG after the ruling delivered on Saturday, where the court dismissed both applications for joinder and security for costs.

One of the claimant’s lawyers, Gabriel Suri, urged the Attorney General in court to withdraw the application for strike out, arguing that the issues as contained in that application had already been addressed in earlier rulings.

“We should be conscious of the court’s time and resources,” Suri told the court.

In the meantime, Claimants’ counsels Mr Taupongi, Mr Kaboke, and Mr Waleanisia are of the view that, in the interest of time, they bring those arguments at the next conference hearing on Wednesday, April 8.

Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer directed that both matters proceed together at the preparation conference, stressing that ‘time is of the essence’.

The Chief Justice further directed that all submissions and sworn statements be filed by the close of business on Tuesday, April 7.

At the preparation conference, the Court will evaluate contested constitutional questions and issues central to the judicial review and will also decide and rule on the strike-out application as filed by the AG.

Sir Albert Palmer emphasised the importance of ensuring access to justice in cases of public importance. “The Court must be astute to ensure that access to justice is not impeded by interlocutory orders which may have the practical effect of preventing the adjudication of serious constitutional questions,” he noted in his earlier ruling dismissing the Attorney General’s bid for security of costs.

Thus, it is fair to say that any attempt on the part of the AG to strike out would be weakened as the AG loses a procedural tool to block the case, given the outcome of the ruling.

Counsel for the claimant, Mr Suri, told Island Sun outside the court on Saturday that the strike-out application was a “delay tactic” aimed at giving the minority government time to lure MPs from the majority opposition coalition.

The claimants include Opposition Leader Matthew Wale, PFP Wing Leader Fredrick Kologeto, Independent Members Leader Manasseh Maelanga, and six political parties forming the new majority coalition of 28 MPs.

The claimants were represented by counsels, Gabriel Suri, John Taupongi, James Ronnie Kaboke and Francis Waleanisia.

Respondents are the Governor-General, the Prime Minister, the Speaker of Parliament, and the Attorney General.

The Attorney General John Muria Jnr, with his legal team, represented the respondents.

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