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Court to sentence repeat traffic offender on Friday

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

A man who pleaded guilty to multiple traffic offences will be sentenced by the Magistrates’ Court on Friday this week.

Alick Sulu Misitana, 51, from Malaita Province, appeared before the court yesterday facing three charges: using an unlicensed motor vehicle, using an uninsured motor vehicle and driving without a valid driver’s licence.

Misitana pleaded guilty to all three charges.

The court heard that on April 6, 2026, between 9:30am and 10am, police officers conducting routine patrols around the Honiara Central Market area spotted a vehicle they believed to be unlicensed.

The vehicle was stopped near ITA Hardware, where officers identified the driver as Misitana and the vehicle as a white Toyota Corolla.

Checks conducted by officers from the Kukum National Traffic Unit confirmed that the vehicle license, insurance and the driver’s license were all expired.

The defendant was formally charged and later released on principal bail of $1,000.

Police Prosecutor Moffat Tei informed the court that Misitana was not a first-time offender and had previously been convicted and fined $1,700 three weeks earlier for similar traffic offences, a fine which remains unpaid.

In response, Principal Magistrate Joyceth Paile asked the prosecutor whether a warrant of default had been issued against the defendant for failing to pay the earlier fine.

The prosecutor told the court he would need to confirm the matter with the court clerk.

Principal Magistrate Paile also questioned Misitana about why he failed to pay the previous fine.

The defendant told the court he had attempted to make a partial payment of $100, but claimed the court clerk refused to accept it and did not clearly explain the due date for payment.

Misitana further explained that he relies on selling and transporting fish and chips to the Honiara Central Market as his main source of income to support himself and pay the fines.

He also apologised to the court for breaching the law.

Principal Magistrate Paile ordered the defendant to pay $500 as principal bail and reminded him that the bail was imposed to ensure his attendance at the next court hearing.

She further warned that failure to appear in court on the next date would result in forfeiture of the bail amount for failing to comply with court orders.

The matter was adjourned to Friday, May 22, at 9am for sentencing.

Moffat Tei prosecuted the matter on behalf of the Office of the Police Prosecutions Department (OPPD), while Misitana represented himself in court.

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ACCOUNTABILITY CALL

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TSI calls on Wale government to stay transparent and accountable

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Anti-corruption watchdog Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) calls on the new government led by Prime Minister Matthew Wale to uphold transparency, accountability and good governance as it assumes office.

In a statement this week, TSI congratulated Mr Wale on his election and acknowledged the constitutional and democratic process undertaken by Parliament in selecting the country’s new leader.

The organisation said Solomon Islands is entering a critical period and urges the new administration to place the national interest at the centre of all decision-making.

TSI said that citizens continue to face major social and economic challenges, including the rising cost of living, unemployment, poor service delivery and growing public frustration over political instability and governance concerns.

It said the public expects leadership that is principled, inclusive and committed to restoring trust in government institutions.

The watchdog also urges the government to strengthen the rule of law, respect democratic institutions and enhance anti-corruption measures and governance systems.

It further calls for the responsible and equitable management of public resources, with a focus on policies that improve the welfare and livelihoods of Solomon Islanders.

TSI appeals to all Members of Parliament, regardless of political affiliation, to prioritise national interest over personal or political ambitions.

The organisation welcomes remarks made by Prime Minister Wale following his official declaration in Parliament on Friday, May 15.

In his maiden address, Mr Wale acknowledged global economic pressures affecting Solomon Islands and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to disciplined and prudent management during challenging times.

TSI said the Prime Minister’s call for increased productivity and participation in economic activities reflects the need for collective national effort to address development challenges.

The organisation also welcomed Mr Wale’s recognition of the role of young people in nation-building.

TSI said it remains ready to work with government, Parliament and development partners to strengthen democratic governance and integrity systems in Solomon Islands.

Prime Minister Wale, in his maiden speech, described his election as a privilege and honour, while urging citizens to hold his government accountable.

“I will not trifle with this privilege and the government that I lead will do its utmost to serve. Please help keep us accountable and responsible,” he said.

Mr Wale also warned that his administration is taking office during difficult times and said some decisions ahead may not be easy.

“We take government at a difficult time… but we will exercise discipline and prudent management,” he said, adding that reforms may be painful but necessary.

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OPEN TO ALL

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SICF to host first chess tournament this Sunday

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands Chess Federation will stage its first chess tournament for 2026 this Sunday at White River School in Honiara as part of efforts to revive and strengthen competitive chess in the country.

The tournament will also officially introduce the federation’s new executive team while bringing together both experienced and upcoming chess players from across the capital.

According to information shared by Federation President, Simon Chottu through the federation’s social media platform, the event is open to all ages and welcomes both male and female participants, including beginners, casual players, former champions and rising talents.

Registration for the tournament is set at SBD $20, with prize money also up for grabs for top-performing players.

The federation said the tournament aims to rebuild excitement around the sport while creating more opportunities for players to compete regularly.

A major highlight of the event will be the introduction of a new “Challenge Match” initiative, which will feature a special showdown between local players Junior Lui and Fred R.

The federation explained that the Challenge Match concept will now become a regular feature in future tournaments, allowing players to challenge one another in featured contests designed to build rivalries and increase interest in the sport.

“From now on, every tournament will feature a special Challenge Match where two players battle it out on the board,” the federation stated.

The federation added that players will also be given opportunities to submit their names for future featured matches following Sunday’s challenge encounter.

According to the federation, the initiative is intended to bring back strong competitive chess, encourage new talents to rise, unite old and new players, and make the game more active and entertaining for everyone involved.

The tournament will take place on Sunday 24th May at White River School and is open to all interested participants.

The Solomon Islands Chess Federation in recent years been working to rebuild local participation in chess through community-based competitions and public engagement activities that aim to attract more young people into the sport.

The federation’s slogan for the upcoming event is: “One Board. One Goal. One Champion.”

Photo credit: Solomon Islands Chess Federation/Facebook

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Solomon Islands Iron Lady shares emotional appreciation after Canada victory

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BY TONY IROGA

Solomon Islands weightlifting champion Jenly Wini has shared an emotional message of appreciation following her recent success in Montreal, Canada, describing the journey to her latest achievement as one filled with sacrifice, hard work and faith.

In a heartfelt message posted from Montreal on May 15 in her official Facebook page, Wini reflected on the intense preparations she undertook over the past two months after her successful campaign in Samoa earlier this year.

The national athlete said only two weeks of preparation separated her Samoa achievement from the latest championship in Canada, but she remained committed to training hard every day in pursuit of her goals.

“God answered our prayers in many ways.

“My strength and talent are from God and I always believe in whatever I do. I work hard every single day, no cheating to achieve my goals for these two months, April and May,” Wini said.

Wini acknowledged the many challenges she faced during her journey, saying there were moments when criticism and negative comments were directed at her, including attempts by some individuals to distract her preparation through social media messages.

However, the decorated weightlifter said she chose not to react to the negativity and instead remained focused on her mission to represent the country with pride.

“People call me names, and even inbox trying to distract my preparation, but I never react because I know these are trials to get me down,” she stated.

The athlete also used the opportunity to thank supporters who stood beside her throughout the campaign, especially those who continued encouraging her during difficult moments.

“So now I am able to say thanks to friends who inbox me and encouraged me to keep my head high. I appreciate you all,” she said.

Wini stressed that her victory was not only personal but belonged to the entire nation.

“This win is for the country, not myself, so if you are one true proud Solomon Islander you should be happy, not attacking me,” she added.

The Solomon Islands athlete further acknowledged the support of the National Sports Council (NSC), sponsors, families and friends who assisted her journey to Canada.

She paid special tribute to sponsor Michael Chan and others who contributed towards her preparations and participation at the championship.

Wini’s latest achievement continues to inspire many young athletes across the Solomon Islands, further cementing her reputation as one of the nation’s most accomplished sporting figures on the international stage.

Photo credit: Jenlyn Wini’s Fb page

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SI sailing coach completes first phase of world sailing scholarship

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Solomon Islands Sailing Federation assistant head coach, Mr Paul Wate, has successfully completed the first component of the prestigious World Sailing Technical Coaches Scholarship Programme in England.

Mr Wate, who is the Oceania Sailing Federation (OSAF) recipient for the 2026 World Sailing Scholarship Award, is expected to return to the country this afternoon, following a month-long residential study and training programme at the Andrew Simpson Centre in Weymouth, United Kingdom.

Technical Director of the Solomon Islands Sailing Federation, Geoffrey Baragamu, confirmed the development in information made available to Island Sun Sports yesterday.

Baragamu said the programme is specifically designed for coaches who are passionate about developing grassroots sailing in their respective countries.

“Mr Paul Wate is a dedicated coach both on and off the water with a strong passion for water sports, especially sailing.

“He was first appointed as Assistant Head Coach for the Solomon Islands Sailing Federation in 2022 and played an important role in preparing the national team for the 2023 Pacific Games, where some of our athletes achieved personal best performances,” Baragamu said.

According to Baragamu, the scholarship curriculum focuses on the skills required to teach sailing, establish Learn-to-Sail programmes, manage sailing schools and develop athletes into competitive racing sailors.

The programme structure consists of four key components, beginning with the in-person residential training in Weymouth, followed by three remote online learning modules scheduled between June and December this year.

Baragamu said Wate has now completed the first component in the UK and will continue with Modules One, Two and Three through online sessions upon his return to Solomon Islands.

“He should complete the full programme by the end of December 2026 and gain the World Sailing Level One and Level Two Certificates,” he added.

The Solomon Islands Sailing Federation believes the scholarship will further strengthen local coaching standards and contribute to the long-term development of sailing in the country.

Sailing continues to grow steadily in Solomon Islands through support from regional and international federations, with local coaches and athletes increasingly taking part in Oceania programmes that aim to improve technical skills, athlete pathways and grassroots participation in the sport.

Photo: Supplied

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SIFF pays tribute to late turf expert

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BY TONY IROGA

The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) paid tribute to one of the country’s most respected football turf and grounds experts, the late Reuben Lawrence Oimae, whose contribution to football development in Solomon Islands and across the Pacific has left a lasting legacy.

In a statement released yesterday, SIFF President, Executive and Management expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Oimae, describing him as a dedicated member of the football fraternity and a highly respected professional in football turf management.

According to SIFF, Oimae was widely recognised for his extensive experience and expertise in maintaining and developing football grounds, with his work stretching across Honiara, Malaita Province, Western Province, and internationally to Samoa, Papua New Guinea and Australia.

The federation said his professionalism and commitment helped shape many football pitches where players throughout the country continue to train and compete today.

“Reuben was not only a dedicated member of the SIFF family but also a highly respected figure across the Pacific and beyond,” the statement said.

SIFF further described him as a passionate football servant who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to support the growth of the game in Solomon Islands.

Beyond his professional achievements, the federation remembers Oimae as a kind, loving and generous person who was admired by colleagues, players and friends alike.

The federation also extended its condolences to his immediate family and relatives in Kwara’ae in Malaita Province and Ngella in Central Islands Province during their time of grief.

“Reuben will be remembered for his professionalism, his passion for the game, and his quiet dedication behind the scenes that made so much of our football possible,” SIFF stated.

The federation concluded by praying for strength, comfort and peace for the bereaved family, adding that Oimae’s contribution to football in Solomon Islands will never be forgotten.

“Rest in peace, Reuben Lawrence Oimae. Your contribution to football will never be forgotten,” the statement concluded.

Photo credit: SIFF Fb page

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Minister Wasi attends market linkage workshop

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD), Franklyn Derek Wasi, visited Auki yesterday.

His visit was primarily to attend a Market Linkage Workshop and to receive updated information regarding the ministry’s work in the province. 

Upon arrival yesterday morning, Wasi and his team paid a courtesy visit to the Malaita Provincial Government House to meet with the Premier of Malaita Province, Elijah Asilau’a. 

During his keynote address, Minister Wasi stated that the Market Linkage Workshop is significant as the ministry works to strengthen rural livelihoods in terms of agriculture and agribusiness development.

He said that accessibility to markets is the major setback that rural farmers face in their daily hustle.

“Many challenges and setbacks have been faced by rural farmers, especially regarding access to reliable markets, buyers, transport, storage, and business information.

“Even the farmers have struggled to produce quality products from agricultural resources,” he said.

The workshop was part of the Ministry’s efforts to strengthen agricultural production and value chains across the provinces.

MALD acknowledged the support from the World Bank through the Solomon Islands Agriculture and Rural Transformation (SIART) Project for organising the initiative.

The initiative brought together key stakeholders to build partnerships, improve coordination, and support agricultural growth and rural economic development.

The workshop was attended by the Ministry’s partners, stakeholders, representatives from other ministries, association representatives, and farmers.

Photo credit: MALD

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Santa Cruz’s new terminal building reaches 70 percent progress

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BY ALICE T CAMPBELL

Construction progress on the Santa Cruz (Lata) New Terminal Building under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2) has reached 70 percent completion, marking a major milestone in strengthening aviation infrastructure in Temotu Province.

A statement from SIRAP2 yesterday said the project is funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) and the terminal building is being constructed by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), with Egis Asia overseeing construction supervision.

A view of the Santa Cruz New Terminal Building currently under construction, Photo by SIRAP2

Major works that have already been completed include the superstructure and substructure, concrete slab for the arrival, departure, and canopy shed extension, as well as installation of roof hardwood rafters and purlins.

Work continues on one side of the Santa Cruz New Terminal Building, Photo credit-SIRAP2, Photo by SIRAP2
Work continues inside the Santa Cruz New Terminal Building, Photo credit-SIRAP2, Photo by SIRAP2

“Currently several activities are progressing concurrently, such as doors and windows installation, exterior and interior wall finishes, carpentry works in check-in area, toilet waterproofing, electrical and plumbing works, concrete base with water tank installation, passenger passageway ramp construction, and compaction of the parking area.

“With continuous supervision and technical support provided by the Egis team, the terminal building has continued to meet key milestones, while maintaining high standards for safety and construction quality,” the statement said.

MCA Permanent Secretary Alwyn Danitofea has hailed the new terminal building as an important investment for both Temotu Province and the country.

“Once completed, the new facility will improve passenger comfort, support safer and more efficient airport operations, and contribute to economic growth and connectivity for the people of the province,” he said.

The statement said the Santa Cruz New Terminal Building continues to progress steadily towards successful completion with the promise of long-term benefits for local communities, economic activities, and connectivity across Temotu Province and the wider Solomon Islands.

Photo credit: SIRAP2

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Funafou Island women praise Maenuu for his support

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

A women’s group from Funafou Island, Lau Baelelea constituency in Malaita Province appreciate the support they received from their Member of Parliament, Ben Maenuu.

His support has eased their ongoing struggle with the fish marketing business from Malu’u to Auki and from Auki to Honiara. 

According to Lau Baelelea constituency media personnel, Eddie Kairi, MP Ben Maenuu supported the Funafou Island women with two freezers and a Bluetti Solar Power system to power the two freezers.

He said the freezers and Bluetti Solar Power system will help ease the struggles the women have encountered during their process of sending back their eskies home and buying ice blocks to store fish at Auki and Malu’u.

“Ben Maenuu donated two freezers and a Bluetti Solar Power System capable of powering the two freezers. This donation is a fishing project for the women of Funafou Island.

“This solar power system will now allow them to preserve their fish more efficiently and reduce costs significantly,” he said.

He said that the small economic activities provided to the women of Funafou Island will help rural mothers generate income, save, and afford their children’s school fees and essential family needs, as well as support human resource development.

The Funafou women’s group acknowledged their MP, Ben Maenuu, for his support and for empowering them and the entire constituency.

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Atoifi Adventist Hospital organises free health check-ups

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

A week of free health check-ups organised by the Atoifi Adventist Hospital in East Kwaio, Malaita Province, has given many people the opportunity to really know the status of their health.

The program started on Monday, May 11, and successfully ended on Friday, May 15, 2026.

It was organised specifically to provide free health checkups for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and to help people understand their health status. 

In an interview with the staff of the Atoifi Adventist Hospital yesterday, Alrick Naisi expressed gratitude to the people for their turnout during the free health checkups last week.

He said the program has given many people the opportunity to know their health status and receive early treatment.

He also said that it has given nurses and doctors the chance to treat those who have been detected with Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) at an early stage. 

“We appreciate the turnout by the communities and people.

“During the week, many people have just learned their health status. Many have been detected, and our staff have given them early treatment and referrals,” he said.

He said the actual data on the total number of people detected with NCDs will be released later.

Meanwhile, he encouraged those who missed the free health check-up last week to visit the hospital’s outpatient department.

He said that missing a health check-up might seem minor, but it can prevent serious illness.

“I just want to say that missing the health check-up might seem small, but early check-ups can prevent serious illness and allow for the detection of diseases at the earliest stage,” he said.

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