By Ned Gagahe

The debate on the Motion of No Confidence (MONC) in Parliament has been postponed to Monday, December 16, with Parliament prioritizing the completion of the budget process first, according to Clerk to Parliament, Jefferson Hallu.

Speaking to Island Sun yesterday, Clerk Hallu explained that the MONC will follow the standard parliamentary procedure. The mover of the motion will present it, Members of Parliament (MPs) will debate it, and then it will be put to a vote.

Hallu noted that under the Constitution, the motion requires an absolute majority to pass—at least 26 votes. Unlike routine votes in Parliament, the MONC vote will be conducted via roll call to ensure accuracy in the tally.

When asked about the delay in tabling the motion, which matured on Thursday, Hallu clarified that while the MONC was due to be presented on Friday, there was no constitutional or procedural barrier preventing its deferral.

He stated that the decision to delay the debate was made to avoid leaving the country in suspense over the national budget, which took precedence.

“The idea is that there is a general consensus within Parliament to pass the budget first,” Hallu said.

He emphasized the importance of completing the budget process without interruption before addressing the MONC in Parliament.

The rescheduled debate on the MONC is now set for Monday, December 16, with attention shifting to how the proceedings will unfold following the budget’s passage.

Meanwhile, Parliament officially passed the 2025 Appropriation Bill 2024 yesterday. The Bill allocates over $4.83 billion for government operations in the upcoming fiscal year.

The approved legislation authorizes a total expenditure of Four Billion, Eight Hundred and Thirty-Two Million, Two Hundred and Seventy-Three Thousand, Seven Hundred and Thirty-Nine Dollars ($4,832,273,739).

This budget will support the Government’s operations and services for the fiscal year 2025.

BY NED GAGAHE

At a farewell reception held on Wednesday, Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Peter Shanel Agovaka, bid a warm farewell to Japan’s Ambassador to the Solomon Islands,Miwa Yoshiaki, who is concluding his nearly three-year tenure in the country.

A farewell reception was held on Wednesday to honor Miwa Yoshiaki, with the event attended by prominent dignitaries, including senior government officials, heads of diplomatic missions, provincial premiers, the Leader of the Opposition, and other distinguished guests.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele was unable to attend the event due to a Parliament sitting; however, Minister Agovaka represented the government at the ceremony.

In his keynote address Minister Agovaka expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Miwa for his dedicated service, acknowledging the strengthening of ties between the two nations since the establishment of their diplomatic relations in 1978.

“Japan is one of the few countries that Solomon Islands forged diplomatic relationships with when we gained our political independence, and our relationship has stood the test of time.

“It has grown from strength to strength, and Ambassador Miwa has played a crucial role in this continued growth.”

Agovaka commended Miwa for his contributions, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, when Japan demonstrated its support for the Solomon Islands.

“Within three months of his posting in 2022, Ambassador Miwa delivered on Japan’s commitment to assist our COVID-19 efforts with a grant worth $10 million Solomon dollars,” Agovaka said.

Over the course of his tenure, Miwa’s efforts have contributed significantly to the ongoing development cooperation between the two nations.

The Minister highlighted key milestones, including the historic visit of Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi in March 2023, marking the first visit by a Japanese foreign minister to the Solomon Islands since diplomatic ties were established.

Under Ambassador Miwa’s leadership, Japan also provided vital assistance to various projects in the Solomon Islands, such as the establishment of the Solomon Islands National University Fisheries Research Centre and numerous grassroots human security projects.

Miwa was frequently present at handover ceremonies, engaging with local communities and becoming a familiar face in the Solomon Islands.

A particularly memorable event was the Ambassador’s visit to Wagina last month, where he attended a graduation ceremony and witnessed the completion and handover of the Japanese-funded Nikumaroro Community Hall “Te Maneaba.”

“I am sure that over the time you have spent in Honiara, you have built many good relationships and friendships with the people of the Solomon Islands. For this, and many other reasons, you will be dearly missed.” Agovaka said.

Speaking to the Island Sun, Ambassador Miwa expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Solomon Islands government and people for their warm hospitality and support throughout his tenure.

“It has been an honor to serve as Japan’s Ambassador to the Solomon Islands. The friendship between our two countries has grown stronger every year, and I am proud to have played a part in furthering this important relationship.” Miwa said.

Miwa reflected on the moments that had left a lasting impact during his time in the country, including the challenges posed by the global pandemic.

The Ambassador also expressed his admiration for the Solomon Islands’ people.

“The warmth, kindness, and resilience of the people here have deeply touched me. I will always carry these memories with me,” Miwa added.

“I truly hope that the relationship between Japan and the Solomon Islands will continue to flourish in the years to come.” Ambassador Miwa said.

In concluding his speech, Minister Agovaka raised a toast in honor of Ambassador Miwa’s service.

“On behalf of the government and the people of the Solomon Islands, I wish you all the best in the next chapter of your life,” he said.

“May our countries continue to deepen our friendship for many years to come.” Agovaka said.

By Ned Gagahe

The fee for police clearance certificates is set to increase from $90 to $300 next year, as announced by the Minister for Police, National Security, and Correctional Services, Jimson Fiau Tanangada, during a parliamentary session yesterday.

Opposition Leader Matthew Wale raised concerns during the Committee of Supply session, questioning the significant $5.3 million in revenue allocated under the Police Ministry’s budget for police services.

Wale specifically asked about the services provided by the police, focusing on the revenue generated from police clearances. He noted that the current cost for a clearance is approximately $100 and sought clarification on whether other services contribute to the $5.3 million revenue.

In response, Minister Tanangada confirmed that the current fee for a police clearance is $90. However, he announced plans to raise the fee to $300 next year under new regulations, explaining that the increase would modestly boost police revenue.

The Opposition Leader strongly opposed the proposed hike, emphasizing the financial strain it would impose on individuals, particularly aspiring Labour Mobility Unit (LMU) workers, who may struggle to afford the higher fee.

Wale argued that the existing $100 fee was reasonable and sufficient, urging the government to reconsider the proposed increase. He highlighted the additional financial pressures many people already face, including medical expenses.

“Times are tough, and it’s already hard for people to come up with $100,” Wale said. “The proposed $300 fee will place an undue burden on the public. I urge the Minister to review this decision and keep the fee at $100.”

The Opposition Leader’s plea underscores concerns about balancing revenue generation with affordability for the public.