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Speech competition increases students’ public speaking skills

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Mr Henry Rahemola, Norman Palmer School principal says the school’s Annual Speech Day continues to provide students with an important platform to develop and showcase their public speaking abilities.

He made the statement during the school’s 4th Annual Speech Day held yesterday, at the Christ the King Chapel opposite the school compound where students, teachers, parents, invited guests and judges gathered to witness speech presentations by finalists.

In his opening remarks, Rahemola said the Speech Day program became part of the school’s annual calendar following the successful completion of a national speech competition in 2023.

He adds that the event allows students to build confidence, improve communication skills and compete in a positive learning environment.

He further said that students who participated in the finals had successfully progressed through elimination rounds conducted in their respective classes.

Rahemola acknowledges teachers for their commitment and hard work in organising the eliminations and preparing students for the competition.

He also reminded the students that the competition is part of the learning process and more opportunities will be available in the future.

“The administration thanks everyone, invited judges and guests for taking time away from your normal duties to support the program,” Rahemola said.

Photo credit: John Houanihau

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Bishop Norman Palmer School hosts annual speech competition

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Students of Bishop Norman Palmer Anglican School showcased their confidence and public speaking abilities during the school’s annual speech competition held yesterday at the school compound at Borderline in East Honiara.

Held under the theme “Brave Voices, Bright Future,” the event brought together students, teachers, parents and invited guests to celebrate communication skills and student leadership through speech presentations.

The competition was attended by guest of honour Mr Desmond Waita, Education Secretary for ACOM schools, invited guests, school leaders and judges.

The programme began with the traditional garlanding of guests, followed by an opening prayer led by Rev. Barnabas Maelanga. Welcome remarks were delivered by Ms Sarah Taniro and the school principal, Mr Henry Rahemola.

Students from both the primary and secondary divisions took part in the competition, demonstrating their public speaking talents, confidence and ability to communicate effectively before an audience.

Participants competed across several categories, including senior primary classes four to six, junior secondary Form Two, intermediate secondary Forms Three and Four, and senior secondary Forms Five and Six.

At the end of the competition, winners and runners-up from each category received prizes and awards sponsored by Our Telekom and Provincial Press.

The annual event continues to provide an important platform for students to build confidence, strengthen communication skills and prepare for future leadership roles.

Photo credit: John Houanihau

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Public support for PM Wale growing: Sevesi

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BY NED GAGAHE

Former broadcaster Jim Sevesi says public support for Prime Minister Matthew Wale is growing strongly, particularly in Honiara, describing it as a rare political atmosphere in the nation’s capital.

Sevesi said the growing support for the new Prime Minister appears to be one of the first of its kind seen in the country’s political history.

According to him, the support is naturally spreading throughout communities and suburbs around Honiara, where different social groups have been gathering to express their appreciation following the election of the Member of Parliament for Aoke-Langalanga as Prime Minister.

He said many people have openly welcomed the leadership change and are hopeful about the direction of the new coalition government.

Sevesi however acknowledged that the new government only has a short period – only two years to deliver on its promises before the next national election cycle approaches.

Despite this, he said the public has responded positively to Prime Minister Wale’s statement that he does not want to be remembered for “doing nothing” while in office.

Sevesi said the statement carries significant meaning, especially given the many challenges Wale is expected to face as head of the new executive government.

He said expectations from the public are high, with many citizens hoping the new administration will address key national issues and deliver tangible outcomes during its time in office.

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PIF Secretary General meets PM Wale

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BY NED GAGAHE

Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Baron Divavesi Waqa, met with Matthew Wale in Honiara yesterday.

During the meeting, Secretary General Waqa congratulated Prime Minister Wale on his recent appointment and acknowledged the peaceful leadership transition in Solomon Islands as a strong reflection of the country’s commitment to democratic governance.

A statement from the Pacific Islands Forum said Mr Waqa also congratulated Prime Minister Wale on his important regional role as Chair of the Forum.

He said the Blue Pacific region requires bold and steady leadership at a critical time as Pacific nations continue to deal with ongoing regional challenges and crises.

The meeting also provided an opportunity for the Secretary General to brief Prime Minister Wale on key regional priorities, including the current fuel crisis and efforts underway to support a coordinated regional response.

Discussions further focused on Solomon Islands’ leadership role as Forum Chair in guiding regional dialogue, cooperation and collective action among Pacific member countries.

Secretary General Waqa reaffirmed the Forum Secretariat’s full support for Prime Minister Wale, both in his role as Solomon Islands’ national leader and as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum.

The meeting highlighted the importance of regional unity and cooperation as Pacific leaders continue to address pressing economic and development challenges facing the region.

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Australia confident of stronger ties with Solomon Islands under Wale Government

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BY NED GAGAHE

Australia’s Defence Minister Richard Marles says he is confident relations between Australia and Solomon Islands will continue to strengthen under the new government led by Prime Minister Matthew Wale.

Speaking at the Lowy Institute in Melbourne, Mr Marles said he had already been in contact with Prime Minister Wale since his election and expressed strong confidence in the future of the bilateral relationship.

“I know Matthew well. I’ve been in contact with Matthew since he became Prime Minister. I have an enormous sense of confidence about how we will take the relationship forward with Solomon Islands,” Mr Marles said.

He said Australia has continued to strengthen its partnership with Solomon Islands since the Australian Labor Government came into office in 2022.

Mr Marles acknowledged the cooperation that existed under previous governments, including the administration of former Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.

“And I think with both the Manele government, but even with Prime Minister Sogavare, when we first came to government since 2022, we really have been able to progress that partnership,” he said.

The Australian Defence Minister said Canberra’s objective is to remain the “natural partner of choice” for Pacific nations, including Solomon Islands.

“Our objective here is to be the natural partner of choice. I genuinely think that’s how Solomon Islands sees it,” he said.

Mr Marles said Solomon Islands and the wider Pacific region remain strategically important to Australia, adding that Australia is committed to maintaining strong cooperation and engagement with the region.

“Solomon Islands is strategically deeply important to Australia. They know that we see that and they know that we mean to be a committed partner for them,” he said.

He added that he is confident that the relationship between the two countries will continue to grow under the Wale Government.

Photo: Supplied

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US congratulates PM Wale

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BY NED GAGAHE

United States (US) Secretary of State Marco Rubio has congratulated Matthew Wale on his election as the new Prime Minister of Solomon Islands.

In a statement this week, Mr Rubio said the United States Government looks forward to working closely with Prime Minister Wale and his new government.

“The United States congratulates Prime Minister Matthew Wale on his election. We look forward to working closely with Prime Minister Wale and his new government to grow our cooperation with Solomon Islands,” Mr Rubio said.

He added that both countries can work together towards greater security, strength and prosperity.

“Together, we will make our nations safer, stronger, and more prosperous,” he said.

Island Sun understands that US Chargé d’Affaires Dan O’Hara also congratulated Prime Minister Wale during a recent meeting.

During the meeting, both sides discussed ways to increase trade and investment opportunities that will benefit both Solomon Islanders and Americans.

A statement from the US Embassy in Solomon Islands said the United States remains committed to supporting Solomon Islands’ prosperity, democracy and sovereignty.

“As one of the first countries to recognise Solomon Islands after its independence, the United States remains committed to Solomon Islanders’ prosperity, democracy, and sovereignty,” the statement said.

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Sixteen people rescued at sea in Western Province

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) in Western Province (WP), with support from local boat owners rescued sixteen people at sea between Vella La Vella Island on 18 May 2026.

RISPF in a statement yesterday, said the rescue came after police received a distressed call for help after two people from the same boat, carrying 18 people in total swam ashore and reported the incident to the Parakasi Police Station.

Police Commissioner, Ian Vaevaso said the 18 passengers were on board from Irigila Village and travelled to Gizo to attend the funeral service of their late grandmother, and the boat capsized between Liapari and Jari Island.

He said among the eighteen passengers, eleven are adults (7 male, 4 female), and seven children under the age of five were on board a 23-foot ray boat powered by a 60-horsepower engine.

“I want to remind our good sea travellers to try to consider loading capacity and other sea safety tips before travelling,” said Vaevaso.

He also gave a reminder for boat owners and skippers on the importance of sea safety.

“Before you travel, please plan your trip properly.

“Plan your trip and let at least a member of your family know where you are going and what time you expect to arrive. Check the weather by calling the Met Service on phone 23658 or toll-free 933.

“If you start your trip and the weather becomes bad, seek shelter until the sea is calm. Make sure your boat is seaworthy and your OBM is serviced and maintained. Know your skipper. Make sure they are experienced in driving boats,” he said.

Vaevaso also said that safety at sea starts with you and if you are not too sure, stay ashore.

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Motor Pool murder case committed to High Court for trial

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Magistrate’s Court has referred the case of a man accused of murder to the High Court for trial after it considered the prosecution’s evidence as tendered a fortnight ago during a short-form preliminary inquiry.

Junior Lana Malaika, of Longu Lava Village, South East Guadalcanal, Guadalcanal Province, was charged with Murder contrary to section 200 of the penal code.

Malaika pleaded not guilty to the murder charge when arraigned on May 7, 2026.

It was alleged that the defendant, at the Motor Pool area, Henderson, on February 1, 2026, murdered Elson Deke (deceased).

The murder incident stemmed from a fundraising card game held at the Motor Pool area, Henderson, East Honiara.

Police received a report of the murder incident on the same day, and later apprehended the suspect. Formal investigations to obtain evidence were later conducted to substantiate the charge of murder.

Principal Magistrate Ben Alasia, in delivering his ruling yesterday, said the evidence tendered by the prosecution two weeks ago is sufficient to have the matter referred to the High Court for a proper trial.

The ruling comes after the magistrate’s court conducted a short-form preliminary inquiry into the evidence the prosecution will rely on at trial.

The offences of murder are only triable in the High Court, as it is the court of unlimited jurisdiction, where it has the power to hear offences of life imprisonment.

Principal Magistrate Alasia directed the prosecution to prepare the charge sheet and have it filed at the High Court registry before next Friday, May 29, 2026.

Jeremy Oifa represents the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and Jason Anisi from the Public Solicitors’ Office represents the defendant.

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18-yo accused of intimidation to hear sentence from a different Magistrate

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

A Principal Magistrate has told the court he will excuse himself from delivering a sentence judgment in a case of a teenager accused of intimidation and molestation.

The principal Magistrate told the parties on Monday this week that he will not deliver the sentence himself for fear of and a real risk that the defendant might retaliate, pointing out that the defendant might throw stones at his vehicle if he drives past his house given that they are neighbors residing in the same residential area.

Antony Talo, 18, of Fourere village, Baelelea, Malaita Province, faces charges of Intimidation and Molestation under Section 231(1) of the Penal Code, which carries a maximum penalty of three years’ imprisonment.

Police Prosecution alleged that on December 28, 2025, at around 3 am, in West Honiara, the defendant threw stones onto the roof of his neighbor, Elsie Daiwo’s house, causing fear among her family.

When Mrs Daiwo confronted him, the accused allegedly responded with abusive language and dragged a sharp iron object on the ground in a threatening manner.

The court heard and dealt with oral and written sentencing and mitigating submissions from both Prosecution and Defence earlier this month, and is yet to deliver its sentence judgement.

The matter was adjourned to Tuesday, May 26 and is relisted before a different magistrate to deliver a sentence.

In the meantime, the court has directed that the Police Prosecutor summon the defendant to appear at the next court date to receive his sentence before a different magistrate.

Barret Raoga from the Police Prosecutions Department is prosecuting the case, while Trevor Tukochi from the Public Solicitors’ Office represents the defendant.

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12 months good behaviour bond for an illegal street seller

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Magistrate Court has given a 12-month good behaviour bond for a man found guilty of illegally selling bottles of mineral water within the limits of the Honiara Town boundaries without a valid hawker’s license.

Marita Oka, 24, of Suena village, Kirakira, Makira Province, was initially charged with one count of Hawking in a public place without a hawker’s license and one count of selling betelnuts in a betelnut-free zone.

The court heard Oka was formally arrested and charged on May 11, 2026, after the HCC law enforcers spotted him selling 5 bottles of 1.5 liters of Smart mineral water at $5.00 per mineral water and 14 fruit betelnuts at $2.00 per fruit and 13 fruit leaves at $1.00 per fruit leaf to members of the public at the National Museum bus stop without a valid hawkers’ license.

As to the count of selling betelnut in a betelnut-free zone, Oka pleaded not guilty to that charge and told the court that those 14 alleged fruit betelnuts and 13 fruit leaves were seen in his possession but belonged to other street market vendors.

The Prosecutor then informed the court that it intends to withdraw that charge and instead proceed to the count of Hawking in a public place without a hawker’s license. The defendant pleaded guilty to that charge when arraigned yesterday.

Principal Magistrate Joyceth Paile presided over the matter when it came for sentencing judgment yesterday.

In sentencing, she imposed a good behaviour bond on the defendant for a period of 12 months. This comes after the court took into account his personal circumstances in reaching that good behaviour bond.

However, within those 12 months, the defendant must not reoffend. In default of the condition, he will have to pay $600 as a penalty fine.

Francis Wales, case manager from the HCC Prosecution office, told Island Sun that those who normally sell water bottles along the street, mainly outside the Magistrate court, have special exemptions and are issued licenses under the Persons with special disability initiative, granted specifically to disabled people as a means to earn something to make a living.

The maximum penalty for the offence of Hawking in a public place without a hawker’s license is $1,000. The corresponding sentence is 40 days’ imprisonment.

Head of HCC Law Enforcement Unit, Robert Madeo, told Island Sun that officers will continue to enforce the regulation through mobile patrols and monitoring within the Honiara township area.

Madeo also warns street vendors against engaging in illegal hawking activities, saying offenders will be arrested and charged.

Harry Bisafo prosecuted the matter, and he represented the HCC and the offender was self-represented in court.

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