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Prosecutor qualifying course returns after 8 years

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

The “Prosecutor Qualifying Course”, is back after it was first conducted in 2018, eight years ago.

Yesterday a total of 22 police officers from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) anticipated their first day of the course set for six weeks and expected to be completed later this month on the 25th.

Of the 22 police officers, eight are females and are all ready to participate in the Australian funded course.

Prior to sitting down, anxious for the first day of the course, a small ceremony was held.

Speakers at the ceremony, were Inspector Rodney Wheatney, Director of Police Prosecutions Department, Andrew Kelesi, Director of Public Prosecutions and representing the Australian High Commission, Nicole Smith, Councillor for Governance and Stability.

Inspector Wheatney in his remarks stressed that the Prosecutor Qualifying Course is a direct contribution to building the professional capacity of the country’s police force.

He said prosecution is a very unique and specialised field within RSIPF.

“Unlike lawyers, police prosecutors do not spend years in law school, yet they are required to stand in court every day and perform legal work of the highest standard”, said Wheatney.

Meanwhile, Kelesi, Director of Public Prosecutions explained that the course will teach the officers important roles and responsibilities like how to become a prosecutor, how they should act, how they should manage their files and the expectations of court.

“So, it is very important for all of us to go through this intensive course, because to be a prosecutor is very different from being a lawyer”, he said.

Councillor Smith in her remarks, voiced that Australia is incredibly proud to support RSIPF’s Prosecutors Qualifying Course as part of the Solomon Islands and Australia’s broader partnership.

“We recognise the vital role that prosecutors play in upholding the rule of the law and access to justice for all Solomon Islanders,” she stressed.

Speaking to the paper were two police officers, Ellen Anina from Malaita province and Clifford Mark Sanguh of Guadalcanal province.

Ms Anina said the course is very important for police officers who are interested in working in prosecution.

“From this course we will be able to gain legal knowledge needed while working in the prosecution department and court,” she said.

When asked how she felt about joining the course, Anina explained that at first, she felt nervous but upon learning she would be in class alongside some officers she had worked with and listening to their words of encouragement, she is now more than happy to a part of this course.

Clifford Mark Sanguh from Guadalcanal province is also among the 22 police officers taking the course.

Interestingly, by profession, he is a lawyer but has been working in the police force for 5 years now.

For him, being a part of something like this is a dream.

“As a lawyer, I came to realize that participating more in prosecution work will help me to serve my people better,” he said.

Sanguh highlighted that from this course, he wishes to gain knowledge about advocacy, how to interpret cases in court and sharpen his skills of interpreting law.

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Youth in Honiara celebrate international democracy

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BY CHRIS ALEX

Solomon Islands joined the world to celebrate international democracy.

This year’s event took place on Monday, September 15, 2025 at FOPA Village in East Honiara under the powerful theme “Youth in Democratic Action”.

The event brought together hundreds of young people from across the country in a spirited call for greater youth involvement in shaping the nation’s democratic future.

Acting Prime Minister Fredrick Kologeto highlighted the vital role of youth in building a positive and inclusive Solomon Islands.

“You, our youth, are a vibrant and energetic part of our population. Your voices carry innovation, diversity, and hope,” he said, encouraging young people to see themselves as agents of change.

Kologeto stressed that democracy extends beyond the ballot box, pointing to the importance of civic education, public dialogue, and peaceful advocacy.

“These are not just aspirations; they are the very principles on which democracy stands strong,” he added.

He calls on young people to inspire and shape collective choices grounded in equality, justice, and transparency values he described as essential for a thriving democratic society.

“Your participation today is an investment in the peace, stability, and progress of tomorrow,” the Acting Prime Minister said.

He also noted that youth engagement is key to ensure that Solomon Islands’ democracy remains responsive to all citizens.

Highlighting the constitutional foundation of the country’s democratic values, Kologeto reminds people at the event that the Solomon Islands Constitution guarantees essential rights and freedoms including liberty, security, freedom of expression, assembly, and protection of the law.

He however, points out that these freedoms come with responsibilities and limitations, meant to safeguard public interest and protect the rights of others.

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Former Central Kwara’ae MP Fiulaua dies

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BY MORRIS NAFU

Former Member of Parliament for Central Kwara’ae Constituency, Jackson Fiulaua, has been called to rest on Sunday.

Born on October 13, 1957, in Raiako, Malaita, Mr. Fiulaua was 67 years old at the time of his passing.

In an official statement yesterday, the Speaker of Parliament, Patteson John Oti, together with members and staff of the National Parliament, extended their heartfelt condolences to the family of late Fiulaua.

Parliament staff expressed their “deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences” to Mrs Mary Fiulaua, their children, and the extended family in Honiara and Okwala Village, Central Kwara’ae, Malaita Province.

After completing primary school, Fiulaua began his career as a builder and went on to become a successful entrepreneur, managing one of the leading local construction companies in the Solomon Islands.

He entered politics in the August 2010 general election, winning the Central Kwara’ae seat as an independent candidate, unseating the incumbent Deputy Prime Minister Fred Fono, who had held the seat for twelve years.

Fiulaua served as a committed representative of Central Kwara’ae in the Ninth, Tenth, and Eleventh Parliaments, holding office from 2010 to 2024.

During the Ninth Parliament, he was appointed Minister for Infrastructure Development under Prime Minister Danny Philip. He also served as Chairman of the DBSI Sub-Committee and Deputy Chairman of Caucus under the Manasseh Sogavare-led Democratic Coalition Government for Advancement (DCGA).

The Speaker’s message paid tribute to the late Fiulaua’s roles as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, acknowledging the profound loss felt by his family and the wider community.

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Public service bill 2025 back on parliament agenda

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BY MORRIS NAFU

The Bills and Legislative Committee (BLC) is set to resume it’s sitting today to continue deliberations on the Public Service Bill 2025 at Parliament.

This follows an adjournment by Leader of Opposition Matthew Wale, who paused the hearing due to the Ministry of Public Service’s failure to provide necessary documentation related to its consultation report.

In a briefing yesterday, Permanent Secretary Luke Cheka of the Ministry of Public Service revealed that the bill presented is the 12th edition, evolving from its original draft first introduced in 2010.

“The bill before us represents over 12 years of consultation, dialogue, and refinement.

“Successful governments, senior officials, and development partners have all contributed to shaping this reform.

“I want to acknowledge the former Prime Minister’s Secretaries and Ministers of Public Service for their invaluable input over the years,” said Mr. Cheka.

He explained that this 12th edition reflects ongoing reforms and consultations from 2010 through to last year, marking a significant milestone in establishing the framework governing Solomon Islands’ Public Service.

The current Public Service Act of 1988 has served the nation for more than 30 years. However, evolving governance demands, service delivery expectations, and accountability standards call for a modern legislative framework.

The new bill aims to strengthen integrity, boost efficiency, and ensure recruitment, promotion, and management are based on merit and fairness.

It also introduces clear accountability mechanisms, professional standards, and leadership principles aligned with national development goals and international best practices.

Cheka further added that for the Ministry, this legislation is about more than just rules—it’s about ensuring the public service remains fit for purpose and ready to meet future challenges.

“The bill’s objectives include establishing an independent, high-performing public service that delivers responsive and effective services to government and citizens.

“It provides a framework for organizational structure, human resource management, and promotes transparency and accountability in public service governance.

“Additionally, it defines the roles and responsibilities of key officials, outlines the rights and obligations of public service employees, and supports uniform employment practices based on merit, fairness, and equal opportunity. The bill also emphasises training and development for public servants.

“The bill is structured into several parts covering preliminary matters, interpretation, scope, principles and code of conduct, roles and responsibilities, employment management, workforce development, employment conduct, grievances, relations, offices and penalties, embezzlement, and repeal provisions,” he explained.

The Committee is expected to hear from more stakeholders as this week’s proceedings continue.

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TRUTH BEHIND RESHUFFLE

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Kuma removed for closing sufferance wharves, PM urged to come clean

BY MORRIS NAFU

The recent political upheaval surrounding former Finance Minister Harry Kuma is not about a complex investigation, but about a single, decisive policy – the closure of the sufferance wharves.

Insiders have revealed that the official narrative of a “Taskforce investigation” is a smokescreen, and the truth is that Mr Kuma was removed for implementing a Cabinet decision that powerful business interests wanted overturned.

Both Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and new finance minister Trevor Manemahaga had insisted that this reshuffle had nothing to do with the sufferance wharves,

But, the fact that the revocation of the wharves’ international port status happened within a decisive 96-hour window leading into the weekend proves otherwise.

Island Sun had reached out to Mr Manemahaga for comments following his press conference September 9 but was unsuccessful.

A lot of questions government are shying away from.

One main question is why the revocation was timed to be enforced just before the arrival of two specific ships—one scheduled for Saturday, September 6, and another for Monday, September 8.

This was not a coincidence; it was a calculated move to stop the discharge of cargo at these wharves immediately. The sudden “investigation” and Kuma’s removal were the direct retaliation to this effective action.

The real architects of this ministerial reshuffle are not within Cabinet, but in the boardrooms of businessmen Johnny Sy and Harry Chen, who have benefited immensely from the corrupt and chaotic status quo at the wharves and whose shipments were directly threatened by Kuma’s enforcement.

It is therefore puzzling why a senior journalist would attempt to shift public attention to a narrative of “Cabinet solidarity” and a vague taskforce, a sequence of events he may not fully understand or is choosing to misrepresent.

The real story is not about defiance, but about a minister doing his job and being swiftly punished for interfering with the lucrative operations of a powerful few.

Their influence is a matter of public record. Harry Chen notoriously lied to the Government to obtain a $29 million tax exemption on the false pretence of building a hotel. No hotel was built. Instead, he used part of the exemption to construct a warehouse for his business, TBC Hardware, which he then rented out to the Chinese state-owned company, BNBM.

This massive $29 million tax scheme by these foreigners is nothing less than stealing from the Solomon Islands people. It is stealing our normal, day-to-day Solomon Islanders’ hard-earned tax money – money that should be funding our schools, our clinics, our roads, and our essential public services.

This revenue was lost to the people so that a select few could massively enrich themselves.

These two businessmen are not acting alone. They are backed by a cohort of very strong, greedy MPs within the Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) who have benefited greatly from this arrangement.

Reliable sources from the private sector confirm that these ministers and MPs receive substantial kickbacks and favours from these Asian businessmen, compromising their loyalty to the nation.

It is this network of corruption that Harry Kuma threatened when he moved to enforce the law at the wharves.

His subsequent removal and the manufactured “investigation” are a direct result of pressure from these vested interests.

The call is now for these compromised ministers and MPs to stand with the government and the people of Solomon Islands.

Their duty is to uphold the policies of the GNUT that are designed to protect national revenue and sovereignty, not to conspire against them for the benefit of a few wealthy foreigners and themselves.

The future of the country depends on leaders who prioritise national interest over personal greed.

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Tolosi Hokutenikeni Women’s association launched in Small Malaita

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The community of Eliote Village buzzed with excitement on August 29, 2025, as it hosted Tolosi Hokutenikeni Women’s Association’s (THWA) official launching program.

This significant event marks a new chapter for the women of the Apuilalamoa tribe, highlighting a powerful, community-driven initiative set to bring holistic development to the region.

Held under the theme “Empowering Women, Enriching Lives”, the event celebrates the formal establishment of a grassroots organisation founded in 2022.

The ceremony was a testament to the strong community support for the association, drawing representatives from various sectors across the southern region of Malaita Province, including those from the Afio substation and Maka.

The event was attended by two parish priests from the Catholic parishes of Rokera and Tarapaina, joining community leaders and people from surrounding rural areas and along the Maramasilke passage.

The launch also saw a strong turnout of both national and provincial leaders, signalling official endorsement of the association’s work.

The guest of honour, the Member of Parliament for Small Malaita Constituency, Rick Nelson Houwenipwela, delivered a keynote address.

He was joined by the Member of Provincial Assembly for Ward 22, Martin Mae, and representatives from the Development Committee for Ward 21.

Their attendance highlights the crucial alignment between local grassroots efforts and broader governmental development goals.

The Tolosi Hokutenikeni Women’s Association operates on four foundational pillars; worship, service, education, and recreation.

The organisation is structured into two zones of rural and urban.

This innovative model is intertwined with the Solomon Islands’ National Development Strategy (NDS) 2016-2035, which aims to improve the social and economic livelihoods of all Solomon Islanders.

The THWA’s four pillars align directly with key NDS objectives, particularly those focused on poverty reduction, social development, and gender equality. 

The THWA has already begun implementing a range of activities under each of its core functions, demonstrating a commitment to its mission.

The association’s framework is designed to empower women to lead, organise, and create sustainable change from within their own communities.

The launch is more than just a ceremony; it is a declaration of a powerful, community-led movement, positioned to become a catalyst for lasting, positive development within the Apuilalamoa tribal communities and beyond.

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SINU Vice Chancellor urges graduates to lead with heart and humility

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BY MORRIS NAFU

In a stirring address at last week’s Solomon Islands National University (SINU) graduation ceremony held at Maranatha Hall, Vice Chancellor Transform Aqorau called on the Class of 2025 to step forward as role models and leaders in their chosen professions.

“Graduates, you are now empowered to lead,” Aqorau declared.

“The education and experiences you have gained here have prepared you to take on leadership roles in your communities and workplaces. Remember, leadership is not about titles—it’s about mindset and actions.”

Highlighting the unique meaning of leadership in the Solomon Islands, Aqorau reminded graduates of the national motto: “To lead is to serve.”

True leadership, he said, is grounded in humility and service, lifting others up rather than elevating oneself.

“Leadership is about responsibility, integrity, empathy, and vision. It’s not about privilege or power, but about acting honestly, guiding by example, and showing courage and kindness,” he emphasized

Addressing any doubts about their readiness, Aqorau reassured graduates.

“Yes, you are ready. Your time at SINU has equipped you to think critically, act ethically, and face challenges head-on. Never underestimate the impact you can have.”

He quoted Pacific scholar Leight Eppeli, who wisely said, “Smallness is a state of mind.” Aqorau urged graduates to think big and refuse to limit what they or the nation can achieve.

“Your leadership journey may start at home, but your efforts can ripple out globally. In today’s world, even remote voices can be heard. One determined individual can make a world of difference,” he said.

The ceremony celebrated 1,428 proud graduates—60% female and 40% male—ready to serve as teachers, nurses, business leaders, engineers, scientists, and agricultural specialists. As they step into the wider world, Aqorau’s message is clear, “service is the highest expression of leadership.”

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Manele joins PNG for 50th Independence celebrations

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BY MORRIS NAFU

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, along with his delegation, arrived in Port Moresby to join Papua New Guinea in commemorating its 50th Independence Anniversary.

The Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet confirmed in a statement that PM Manele traveled over the weekend following an official invitation from PNG Prime Minister James Marape.

The statement added, the official celebrations are set for Tuesday, 16 September, under the theme “Celebrate Our History, Inspire Our Future.”

PM Manele made the trip from Honiara after concluding the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, joining fellow Pacific leaders gathered in Port Moresby to mark this historic milestone with the Government and people of Papua New Guinea.

The Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea share a deep-rooted relationship, founded on centuries of shared heritage, strong cultural bonds, mutual respect, and Melanesian solidarity.

This 50th Independence Anniversary not only celebrates PNG’s remarkable journey but also strengthens the unity and resilience that connect both nations within the Blue Pacific family.

Manale’s recent visit to PNG were on the Inaugural Wansol Prime Ministers Charity Golf Challenge in Port Moresby the last month.

During the occasion, PNG Prime Minister James Marabe has renewed PNG’s commitment to Solomon Islands with the announcement of another K100 million over the next five years starting 2026 as part of ongoing budget support to the Solomon Islands.

Statement further added, After the celebrations, PM Manele will head to New York to attend the 80th United Nations General Assembly from September 21–28 2025. During his absence, Deputy Prime Minister Frederick Kologeto will oversee the Office of the Prime Minister.

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Fish bottling and hygiene training held in West Are’are

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BY RODRICK DESURI

AUKI

A one-day fish bottling and personal hygiene training was successfully conducted last week at Waimarau and Harumou in Mareho Ward 24, West Are’are, Malaita Province.

The training aims to equip rural fishers, especially women entrepreneurs, with skills to properly handle fish and teach them hygiene standards to support roadside markets and income generation in the communities.

Facilitator and senior fisheries officer in Auki, Mathew Isihanua, said the program was carried out as part of his own initiative to continue a small-scale fisheries project previously supported under the USAID SCALE program in Malaita.

“Since the termination of the USAID program, funding support for such training also ended. Therefore, I decided to continue with the initiative to ensure it benefits the four fisheries setups in Mareho Ward. This training covered two of them,” Isihanua said.

A total of 60 participants attended — 30 from each community. Isihanua said participants gained new skills in fish quality assessment and bottling.

“They learned a lot during the full-day training, especially in fish bottling. However, they also raised the need for financial assistance to purchase pressure pots for processing,” he added.

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South road bridges cause fear for passengers

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BY RODRICK DESURI

AUKI

About five timber bridges along the South Road in Malaita Province are in urgent need of repair and are causing fear among passengers, especially women and children.

The bridges include Oibola, Maoro, and Afatafa in Central Kwara’ae, and Sinasu and Ngariwane in West Kwaio.

Built in the 1990s, the bridges have only been maintained through minor timber replacements over the years.

Long-time vehicle driver Christ Kirana warned that the bridges’ current condition could lead to accidents.

“The timbers of the bridges are broken, rotten, and have no strength. Even the nails and wires are already rusted,” he said.

A young teacher, Raphaelle Mosokeni, expressed similar concerns.

“Yes, the bridges need urgent fixing as soon as possible. This is to prevent any tragedy related to the bridges,” she said.

Last month, four road improvement contracts were signed under the Australian Government’s National Transport Fund (NTF) for Malaita Province.

The upgrades include Busurata Road in Central Kwara’ae, awarded to Exodus Trade Development, and Maoa in West Kwaio to Hauhui in West Are’are, awarded to Trades Transformation Company.

It is unclear if the timber bridges are included in these contracts.

Island Sun Auki understands that once the road upgrades are completed, they will provide safer and more comfortable access for road users and passengers in Southern Malaita.

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