BY NED GAGAHE
Central Islands Province Premier Michael Salini has strongly opposed provisions in the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Bill that would allow compulsory land acquisition by the government, stating that his province “will not support” any such measures during a parliamentary hearing on Tuesday.
Speaking before the Bills and Legislation Committee, Mr Salini drew a clear line on land rights.
“We don’t support compulsory acquisition by the Minister. Land acquisitions for the special economic zones must properly involve provincial governments and landowners who must be fully consulted and happy with the process.” He said.
The Premier specifically objected to subsection 5 of division 2 of part 2 of the bill, which grants the minister authority to acquire land for SEZ development.
Salini emphasized that all land acquisitions should follow traditional processes, initiated either by landowners themselves or with their complete support.
“We will bear the consequences of any bad decisions,” he warned, stressing that provincial governments demand greater involvement in development decisions affecting their jurisdictions.
While cautiously welcoming the bill’s potential economic benefits – “Perhaps this is what our people have been waiting for” – the Premier issued several non-negotiable conditions.
He called for depoliticized management of SEZs, insisting development authorities must operate free from political interference and expressed concerns about corruption risks in major projects.
The Premier’s stance highlights growing tensions between national development plans and provincial autonomy in Solomon Islands, where 87% of land remains under customary ownership.
His testimony echoes concerns raised by other provincial leaders about protecting local interests while pursuing economic growth.
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