Home Blog Page 127

Mentally ill boy torches family home

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY BEN BILUA

BUALA police in Isabel Province are conducting a manhunt for a mentally ill young man who allegedly burnt down his family’s home earlier this week.

The incident occurred on Sunday at a village near Kolosori in the Maringe area of Isabel Province.

Reports reaching Island Sun state that the young man set fire to the house following an argument with his mother.

Attempts by the mother and several youths from Kolosori village to extinguish the flames were unsuccessful as the fire quickly engulfed the dwelling.

Speaking to this paper yesterday, community elder, Mr. Reuben Dotho said the incident has caused fear and concern among villagers.

He said the young man became mentally ill last year and had since been involved in several incidents affecting community property and food gardens.

“The first incident happened last year when he damaged our water supply pipeline. Police were called and arrested the boy but he was later released,” Dotho said.

He said the young man allegedly continued to cause trouble in nearby communities by burning down garden huts after being released.

Dotho said Sunday’s incident began after an argument between the mother and her son.

“After the argument, the mother went to sleep in a nearby leaf hut while the boy remained in the family house,” he said.

Dotho said the mother later saw smoke coming from the house. She ran to the house and tried to put out the fire but it was already too strong.

Dotho said the situation became more frightening when the young man allegedly attempted to attack his mother with a machete.

The mother fled to Kolosori village to seek help and returned with several young men, but by the time they arrived the house had already been burnt to the ground.

“The young man escaped while they were trying to put out the fire,” Dotho said.

Police are continuing their search for the suspect.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Govt begins preparations for 50th independence anniversary

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY NED GAGAHE

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says preparations for Solomon Islands’ 50th Independence Anniversary in 2028 are now a top priority for the Government.

Speaking to local media during a press conference on Sunday, March 8, the Prime Minister confirmed that Cabinet has approved the establishment of a National Taskforce to coordinate preparations for the country’s Golden Jubilee.

Manele said he has directed that work begin immediately, acknowledging that planning for such a major national milestone must start without delay.

The taskforce has been mandated to plan and coordinate the roadmap for nationwide celebrations leading up to the anniversary in July 2028.

According to the Prime Minister, one of the first priorities for the taskforce will be to establish a national theme for the 50th anniversary.

He said identifying a theme early is essential as it will guide planning, branding and national messaging for all activities and projects leading up to the celebrations.

“A well-defined theme will ensure that every project and event between now and July 2028 is aligned with a single, unified vision for the future of our country,” Manele said.

The Prime Minister also calls on citizens to reflect on the nation’s journey since independence in 1978.

“As we approach fifty years of independence, I encourage all Solomon Islanders to reflect on how far our nation has come since 1978,” he said.

Manele said from its early days as a newly independent state, the Solomon Islands has grown into a sovereign nation actively contributing to regional and global affairs while continuing to strengthen democracy, development and national unity.

He added that under the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT), the administration remains focused on stability, reform, economic recovery and long-term development.

The Prime Minister also urges citizens to embrace patriotism and work together in nation-building as the country approaches the historic milestone.

“Nation-building requires patriotism, pride in our country, respect for our institutions and a shared commitment by every citizen to contribute positively to our national future,” he said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Government strengthens private sector partnership to drive economic growth: PM Manele

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY NED GAGAHE

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says the government continues to maintain close engagement with the private sector, describing it as the primary driver of Solomon Islands’ economic growth.

Speaking to journalists during a media conference on Sunday, March 8, the Prime Minister said his office remains committed to supporting the key programs of the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) this year.

He said the Government looks forward to participating in upcoming events such as the Prime Minister’s Breakfast and the Business Excellence Awards, which serve as important platforms for dialogue between government and businesses.

“These events remain vital platforms for dialogue and for recognising the innovation and achievements of our local enterprises,” Manele said.

The Prime Minister added that economic opportunities for Solomon Islands are also expanding through strengthened regional partnerships.

According to Manele, plans are currently underway for Solomon Islands to host the inaugural Papua New Guinea–Solomon Islands Business Forum, tentatively scheduled for the end of April.

The forum is expected to bring together investors and entrepreneurs from both countries to strengthen trade and infrastructure linkages.

The event is also expected to include a bilateral meeting and the WANSOL Prime Ministers’ Golf Challenge between Prime Minister Manele and James Marape, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea.

Manele said the gathering will highlight the strong bonds of friendship and Melanesian solidarity shared between the two neighbouring nations.

“At the policy level, we are fast-tracking reforms to empower our local entrepreneurs,” the Prime Minister said.

He said that one of the Government’s key priorities is the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Bill, which is currently being finalized in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration before being tabled in Parliament.

Manele said the proposed legislation, along with the Mineral Resources Bill, the VAT Bill, and the Electricity Amendment Bill, forms part of the Government’s broader efforts to reduce the cost of doing business and create a more supportive environment for businesses in Solomon Islands.

“These reforms are central to our efforts to create a more conducive business environment for all Solomon Islanders,” he said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

‘Effect-based laws can address copen issue’

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Law reform Senior Legal Officer Augustine Basia said reforming the existing dangerous drugs legislation to effect-based model can address the issue of copen.

The increasing use of copen amongst youths and students was raised by Opposition Leader, Matthew Wale when the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), including the Drug Enforcement Unit, China Police Liaison Team appeared before the Bills and Legislation committee (BLC) last month.

However, in a response police said that copen does not meet the element when it comes to laying of judgement under the existing dangerous drugs legislation.

Meanwhile speaking before the BLC Law reform Senior Legal Officer Augustine Basia said that reforming the existing dangerous drugs legislation to effect-based system can address the issue of copen.

He said that countries that have faced similar challenges have redesigned their laws and moved away from list-based models towards effect-based models.

“An effect-based approach criminalizes substance based on what they do, not on what they are. Given the proven harm caused by copen, this effect-based reform could rightly extend to criminalizing any variant or compounded use of tobacco and nicotine that produces psychoactive effects beyond accepted forms,” he said.

He told the BLC that this approach would also capture unregulated and dangerous practices that uses household items and other items that can be found domestically.

“When we talk about an effect-based approach, the first question people ask is, what about substances we already use legally, like alcohol, cigarettes, or coffee, caffeine? That’s why exemptions are important in modern legislation.

“Not all psychoactive substances should be banned. Other countries already use exemption clauses to protect medical, scientific, cultural, and everyday uses. For medicines, laboratory use, traditional and cultural practices, everyday substances like caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, which are regulated under their own laws, and substances with legitimate medical and scientific value,” he said.

He said that by clearing these exemptions, an effect-based law can strike the right balance.

He said that the Commission welcomes the ongoing work of the Ministry of Health and the Police to reform the dangerous drugs law.

“What we present here is one possible pathway, an effect-based approach that can help the government to build a future-proof legal framework. By banning substances based on their psychoactive effects rather than just their chemical names, we can close loopholes, make enforcement stronger, and better protect our communities from the changing threat of illicit drugs,” he said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Hawaii Summit signals ‘reset’ in SI-US relations: PM Manele

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY NED GAGAHE

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says the recent high-level summit in Honolulu, Hawaii, has marked a significant “reset” in relations between the Solomon Islands and the United States.

Speaking to local media during a press conference on Sunday March 8, 2026, the Prime Minister said the meeting provided an opportunity to strengthen cooperation and secure new commitments that can support the country’s development priorities.

As Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), Manele delivered the keynote address at the summit, calling on development partners to move beyond discussions and focus on practical, finance-ready projects tailored to the Pacific context.

“I urged our partners to shift from dialogue to implementation by supporting projects that are ready for investment and that respect the unique circumstances of Pacific Island countries,” he said.

During the summit, Manele held talks with Christopher Landau, the United States Deputy Secretary of State, where both sides discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation.

The Prime Minister revealed that the Solomon Islands Government is finalizing an Investment Incentive Agreement with the United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) this year.

He said the agreement can help unlock private investment opportunities in the country.

Manele also used the opportunity to pitch the Bina Harbour Tuna Project to US private investors, describing it as a transformative industrial hub that could boost the country’s fisheries sector and create employment opportunities.

On the margins of the summit, Minister for National Planning and Development Coordination Trevor Manemahaga and Rexon Ramofafia and Minister for Finance and Treasury met with the Millennium Challenge Corporation to further discuss the Bina Harbour project.

Government officials also held discussions with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on how to strengthen collaboration to ensure national development projects are identified and implemented in a timely manner.

In another development, the Prime Minister announced that negotiations have been completed for the return of the Peace Corps to Solomon Islands in 2026.

The programme will bring volunteers with specialized skills to support rural communities, particularly in education and community development.

Manele also formally requested US support to establish a Pacific Islands Forum Trade Office in the United States. The proposed office would help exporters from Pacific countries gain better access to the American market.

The Prime Minister noted that similar PIF trade offices already operate in other major markets.

Security cooperation was also discussed during the summit.

The United States has committed to increasing assistance to help clear Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) left behind from World War II across Solomon Islands.

Officials from Solomon Islands also discussed commitment to strengthen cooperation on the recovery and repatriation of fallen US service members believed to be buried in Solomon Islands.

In addition, officials met with leaders and faculty at the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies to explore opportunities for Solomon Islands officials to participate again in executive-level security training programs.

Prime Minister Manele said while such international partnerships are vital for the country’s long-term development, the government remains mindful that the benefits must ultimately reach ordinary citizens.

“Our engagement with the world is about ensuring the security, prosperity and wellbeing of our people at home,” he said.

He added that Solomon Islands will continue to strengthen partnerships with international partners as it navigates an increasingly dynamic global environment.

Photo credit: Press Secretariat, OPMC

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Ruling on armed robbery ‘no case to answer’ set for March 13

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY MELVILLE TITIULU

Ruling on the ‘no case to answer’ application by defence in an armed robbery case is set for tomorrow, Friday, March 13.

Magistrate court on Tuesday, March 10, heard the ‘no case to answer’ application from defence representing two men accused of armed robbery at the KGVI USP complex in East Honiara on December 23, 2022.

The no case to answer application was heard before Principal Magistrate, Hilly Elma Veenah Rizu.

Chris Yambeyabbi, 37, a PNG national and Eddie Maki, 30, a Solomon Islander were jointly charged with armed robbery.

Yambeyabbi is separately charged with possession of a firearm and ammunition.

At the close of prosecution’s case on Tuesday, March 3, defence informed court of intentions to make an application for a no-case to answer due to insufficient evidence for both charges.

Defence for Yambeyabbi questioned the blurred quality of the CCTV footage saying that there is no evidence to point out that it was actually [Yambeyabbi] that was seen on that footage.

As to prosecution witness 3 (PW3), defence said, “there is insufficient evidence as there was no forensic ballistic report prepared to link the alleged homemade weapon used to Chris”.

Defence for Maki spoke more on the required legal test for a no case to answer that– “PW1 recognition evidence is insufficient to render a conviction”.

Prosecution highlighted the credibility of prosecution witness 1 (PW1) saying that PW1 during trial, gave recognition evidence in court based on CCTV footage of the day in question.

PW1 said he recognised the two men in the CCTV footage as Yambeyabbi and Maki because he knew their body ‘structure’ and ‘shape’.

When PW1 was asked as to how he recognised Maki, he said “he knew Eddie as they resided in one area- Burns creek”.

As to the issue of possession of firearm, prosecution said PW2 testified that the homemade gun was found in his possession.

The homemade gun has ‘’no safety mechanisms’’ as it was poorly constructed hence not safe to conduct a test fire when it was brought for PW3 to conduct its inspection at the Rove Amory to determine whether it was capable of discharging shots or not.

Prosecution told court that PW3 is a qualified expert in short gun, sniper rifles and firearms.

Therefore, prosecution said the defendants still have a case to answer.

The matter was adjourned for Friday, March 13 at 9.30am for ruling on the no case to answer.

In the meantime, court has ordered bail extension for Maki and remand of warrant was also extended for Yambeyabi.

Senior Prosecuting counsels, Jeremy Oiofa from the Director of Public Prosecutions represented the crown. Senior Defence Counsel, Ron Dickey Pulekera represented Yambeyabbi and Senior Defence Counsel, Alice Silas represented Maki.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Manetoali’s conversation adjourned for March 23

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The conversion case against former Member of Parliament for Gao/Bugotu, Samuel Manetoali has been adjourned for March 23, 2026.

Manetoali is facing multiple counts of conversion charges after the Court of Appeal ruling delivered on October 31, 2025, upheld a 2023 High Court decision ordering a retrial, resulting in the matter being remitted back to the Magistrate court before a different magistrate.

The allegations relate to the payment of a sum of $100,000 around December 24, 2014, into the Gao/Bugotu Constituency Account with the ANZ Bank.

This sum of money was part of the $300,000 which the Republic of China (ROC) provided towards the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Yesterday the matter came before Chief Principal Magistrate Ricky Lomea for plea – whether or not the defendant pleaded guilty or not guilty to the conversion charges.

The defendant was in attendance at the court with his two defence lawyers.

Prosecution was asked to confirm the amended charges in which the defendant was supposed to enter his plea on.

The charges when brought before the attention of Chief Principal Magistrate, appeared defective.

Defence was of the view that prosecution should make it clear the wording of the charges, as the wording as contained in the charges itself would create confusion.

Prosecution sought an adjournment to liaise with the Prosecuting Counsel in carriage of case file as she would be in a better position to provide clear update as to the issue of wording of charges.

Chief Principal Magistrate then ordered that the matter be adjourned to March 23 at 9am for plea.

In the meantime, the court made directions that the Prosecuting Counsel in carriage of the case file is to attend at the next mention to rectify and clarify issues raised in the wording of the defective charges.

Bail was extended for Manetoali.

Prosecuting Counsel, Mr Hendrick appeared on instructions from Mrs Olivia Ratu Manu, and he represented the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. Jim Seuika and Mr Sipolo of JS Ward & Associates, represented Manetoali.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

30 DAYS SECURITY

Written by
Admin
-
0

Government monitoring fuel supply, prices amid tension in the Middle East

BY NED GAGAHE

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says the Government is closely monitoring Solomon Islands’ fuel supply and prices as global tensions threaten to disrupt international supply chains.

National storage capacity of fuel is also low – of the required 90 days of fuel storage, Solomon Islands can only store enough to last 30 days should fuel supplies overseas stop.

Speaking during a press conference over the weekend, the Prime Minister said the Ministry of Finance and Treasury and the Central Bank of Solomon Islands are assessing possible measures should fuel prices increase.

He said the Government could consider targeted fiscal measures, including exemptions on fuel imports, to help cushion fuel suppliers and reduce the impact on consumers if global prices rise.

Manele acknowledged that the country’s limited fuel storage capacity remains a challenge.

“If there is a need for measures such as exemptions on fuel imports to cushion importers, that will be handled by the Ministry of Finance and Treasury together with the Central Bank,” he said.

Providing further updates, Secretary to Prime Minister (SPM)- Special Duties Sir Dr Jimmie Rodgers said Solomon Islands currently has enough fuel supply to last between 20 and 30 days.

He said that the country’s fuel storage capacity is about 30 days, while the recommended level for fuel security is around 90 days.

“Our storage capacity is limited. If all tanks are full, we can probably maintain supply for about 30 days, although the recommended level is about 90 days,” Rodgers said.

He added that fuel supply could also be affected by disruptions to key global shipping routes.

Rodgers said that a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz, while shipping routes through the Strait of Malacca are also critical for transporting fuel to the Pacific region.

Instability in these areas could potentially disrupt fuel shipments to Pacific countries, including Solomon Islands.

He said despite the risks, current fuel shipments to the country are still on schedule.

Rodgers also revealed that discussions will soon be held with fuel importers and suppliers to strengthen the country’s fuel security arrangements.

He said that fuel supply to several Pacific countries is coordinated through a regional system based in French Polynesia, which manages tanker schedules and distribution.

The planned discussions will focus on improving monitoring systems, supply coordination and fuel storage capacity to ensure Solomon Islands maintains stable fuel supply.

Rodgers added that while supply may remain stable for now, global developments could still lead to higher fuel prices.

“At this point we have enough supply in the country, but prices may still rise depending on what happens globally,” he said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

FLYING PARTNER

Written by
Admin
-
0

Airline backs Kings’ international campaign

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Solomon Airlines has stepped in to support Solomon Kings FC’s international football campaign after signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to become the club’s official airline partner.

The partnership will see the national carrier support the Solomon Islands professional football club with travel requirements during the 2026 OFC Champions League, providing a timely boost as the team undergoes circuits of regional competition.

According to a media statement from Solomon Airlines, the agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony held on the airport tarmac beside a Solomon Airlines Airbus A320 aircraft, attended by players, club officials and airline representatives.

The airline stated that under the partnership it will assist with the club’s travel arrangements while also collaborating with Solomon Kings FC on selected marketing and promotional activities.

“Solomon Airlines Limited and Solomon Kings Football Club (SKFC) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), establishing Solomon Airlines as the official airline partner of the Solomon Kings Football Club.

“The signing ceremony was held on the tarmac beside a Solomon Airlines A320 Airbus, with players, officials and airline representatives in attendance,” the statement from the airline said.

Solomon Kings FC Deputy Chairman Rabieh Krayem welcomed the partnership, saying the airline’s support will help the team focus on performance during its international commitments.

“Solomon Airlines’ support allows our team to focus on performance, knowing our travel needs are well taken care of”, Krayem said in comments published by Solomon Airlines and shared on the Solomon Kings FC Facebook page.

“This partnership will not only help showcase Solomon Islands football internationally but allow us to develop the next generation of football players”.

Solomon Airlines Manager Commercial John Wopereis said the airline was proud to support local football and help promote the country through sport.

“Football means a lot to our people and its important pathways to excellence are encouraged and supported”, Wopereis said.

“Partnering with Solomon Kings reflects our commitment to local talent, local sports development, and promoting the Solomon Islands globally. As the national carrier, we are proud to be the Kings’ airline of choice”.

Solomon Airlines added that the agreement will run for 12 months from the date of signing.

The airline also noted that the partnership highlights its ongoing commitment to supporting community initiatives, tourism and sports development across the Solomon Islands.

Meanwhile, Solomon Kings FC remains the country’s first fully professional football club competing in the OFC Pro League and currently sits third on the competition standings while continuing to develop local football talent and represent the nation in regional competitions.

Photo credit : Supplied

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Solomon Kings’ vision to play in the world cup stages

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY TONY IROGA

The most important vision of Solomon Kings FC is to make sure Solomon Islands players play in the world cup stages.

This visionary message was given by the deputy chair of the Solomon Kings board Mr Rabi during an open Fan Club community event hosted by Our Telekom over the weekend at Lawson Tama Stadium.

He also acknowledged the Solomon Kings players and supporters.

“What they have sacrificed since they left on the 28th of December and only got back home last Friday, they represent everything in this country,” he said.

He added humility, respect, pride, passion, family, which are all the values of football in this country but also of the Solomon Kings, these gentlemen are the first professional team of any sport in this country.

“We give them a big round of applause for the sacrifice they have made,” he said.

He acknowledged the Solomon Islands supporters in Australia who followed the team when the team went to Brisbane.

“What we saw, the OFC Pro League, without the Solomon Kings supporters in Melbourne, it would not have been what it was, one thing about this nation, it will get behind its team, its supporters,” he said.

“And for their club in Australia, Wynnum Wolves, they have a long history of football with the Solomon Islands, as they toured Solomon Islands 25 years ago.

“Every Solomon Islands player here has a home in Brisbane at Wynnum Wolves, and every Wynnum Wolves player that comes to Solomon Islands has a home,” he said.

He added that the coming weekend, when the boys play their first game against Auckland, in front of a full stadium, they will show Oceania that the heart of football in Oceania is here in Honiara in the Solomon Islands.

Photo credit- Tony Iroga

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

1...126127128...1,680Page 127 of 1,680