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Vokia trial adjourns July 24

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The trial involving the member of parliament for Northeast Guadalcanal Jamie Lency Vokia has adjourned for July 24.

The defendants in the case include Ethel Claudia Lency Vokia, Jamie Lency Vokia, Rose Tala, Polycarp and Beason Moses.

Presiding Chief Magistrate Emma Garo was sick and thus suspended the trial to continue Wednesday next week for continuation of cross-examination of Dr Derek Sikua the complainant in this case.

Bail was extended for all five defendants.

The prosecution charged all five defendants with conspiracy to defeat justice and interference with the witness contrary to section 116 (b) of the Penal Code to be read with section 21 (a) and (c) of the Penal Code (Cap 26).

Prosecution alleged Mr. Jaimmie Lency Vokia, directed his agents to bring Hilda Vuturua from her home village to testify on his behalf in the election petition case filed against him by Dr. Sikua.

When Hilda Vuturua decided to tell the truth after witnessing her son, Walter Sale give evidence in court, that she saw Mrs. Ethel Vokia gave money an amount of $250 to her grandson Basil Dii to induce him into voting for her husband, Mr. Vokia. That was when the defendants Mrs. Vokia along with defendant Tala, Peresini and Moses interfered and prevent Ms. Vuturua from going to court.

Prosecution further stated that the defendants took Vuturua to lawyer office to make a new sworn statement, stating that she could not attend court because she was sick and did not want to testify against her son Basil in court.

Furthermore, to support the claim prosecution further alleged that they took Vuturua to Medical Centre where they obtained a medical report to support their claim that Vuturua was too ill to testify in court.

Sabrina Habu from Public Prosecution Office appears for crown and Wilson Rano of Rano & Company act for all accused.

2021 riot case mentioned in court

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case of a man charged with unlawful assembly and sedition in relation to the November 2021 riots will return to court on July 25.

Yesterday prosecution informed court that this was the first mention of the case after police arrested Joe Lefoto’o and remanded him in custody for absconding.

Prosecution further stated that Lefoto’o was arrested by Auki police and transferred to Honiara magistrate court on the previous hearing.

Prosecution at that time then filed a remand application in court telling the court that accused Lefoto’o was abscond morning of his trial which are to be conducted in magistrate court. And so, court ruled in favor of the crown application and remanded the accused Lefoto’o in custody.

Defence told court she is intending to file a proposal to the crown so she sought a seven-day adjournment to file her proposal application. Lefoto’o’s remand warrant was extended.

Lefoto’o, 38, is charged with one count of unlawful assembly and one count of sedition.

Prosecution alleged on November 24, 2021, Lefoto’o travelled in Auki Express from Auki to Honiara.

Upon his arrival at Honiara Ports Authority, he led a group of people along with his co-accused John Maga, unlawfully to protest at the National Parliament of Solomon Islands raising discontent among Solomon Islanders about the former Prime Minister.

Fransica Luza appears for the crown and Emy Rusi act for Lefoto’o.

MSG SPEAKS OUT

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MSG condemns unrest in New Caledonia

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) has condemned France for its handling of the UN-mandated decolonisation of New Caledonia.

New Caledonia is crippled by deadly violence which have been going on for more than two months.

The MSG statement was made on Wednesday, July 17 at the sidelines of the current Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM10) in Japan, and is dubbed the Tokyo Statement.

Solomon Islands along with Fiji, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea, and the Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS), the body which represents the indigenous Kanaks of New Caledonia, joined voices to condemn and raise concerns on the unrest in New Caledonia.

Protests and riots have been going on in New Caledonia since May 13 this year. So far 10 people have died and damages have reportedly climbed to nearly USD2 billion. France has deployed its military to the Pacific island territory.

The violence was sparked by France’s move to unfreeze New Caledonia’s electoral roll and weaken the Kanaky indigenous votes.

MSG’s Tokyo statement calls on France to allow for the return to the decolonisation process and for more dialogue towards this end.

“We regret the recent events in New Caledonia after the passing by the French National Assembly of the Constitutional Bill on 13 May 2024, seeking to “unfreeze” the electoral roll for the provincial elections in New Caledonia, which precipitated the carnage that followed.

“We condemn the destruction of property and the unnecessary loss of lives that has effectively caused untold damage to the economy and extreme suffering for the people of New Caledonia.

“We are concerned that certain members of the Cell for Coordinating Field Action (CCAT) have been arrested and deported to France to face trial in a different endroit where the alleged offenses were committed, and we are of the strong view that this is not helpful, to create a harmonious and peaceful environment in New Caledonia.

“We are also strongly opposed to the apparent militarisation of New Caledonia since 13 May 2024, which has the potential to undermine the peaceful resolution to the situation in New Caledonia,” the Tokyo statement said.

“We note, with deep regret, that the voices and concerns of the indigenous people Kanaky, particularly relating to the forceful and unilateral decision by the French State to hold the third Self-Determination Referendum amidst the unprecedented challenges imposed on the indigenous peoples by COVID-19, restriction to movement of people, lack of clarity on election timelines, the difficulties in organizing campaigns and customary mourning rituals, and in spite of collective calls to defer the Referendum until after the 2022 French Presidential Elections.

“We reaffirm our strong opposition, as echoed in our 22nd MSG Leaders’ Summit Communique of August 2023, to the way the third self-determination Referendum was conducted, where less than 50% (only 43%) of the voting population participated and where traditional obligations and Kanak customs relating to COVID 19 deaths were completely ignored.

“We are of the strong view that the conduct was not in accordance with the UN principles allowing a fair and unfettered process to be expressed by the indigenous peoples concerned, in particular, the obligation of the Administering Power to give “due respect for the culture of the peoples concerned” during COVID 19, and therefore regard the conduct and the result as illegitimate and null and void.

“We call for a new and fair self-determination referendum to be conducted with technical preparatory supervision by UN experts and observation missions for the actual independence referendum to determine the political future of New Caledonia.”

On the post-third referendum negotiations on future political status of Kanaky New Caledonia, the MSG said:

“Aware that the Noumea Accord envisaged negotiations to be held between the Noumea Accord Signatories after the third self-determination Referendum, we call for the speedy resumption of these talks and urge the French State and its instrumentalities of Government to be impartial and honest brokers as was demonstrated in the negotiations and conclusion of the Noumea Accords.

“We strongly believe that the lasting peace we are all seeking can only be guaranteed over time by efforts on both sides to propose political solutions that respond to the legitimate aspirations of the colonized indigenous people of Kanaky-New Caledonia as part of the decolonization process that has been underway since the Nouméa Accords.

“We are pleased to note that the French State and the signatories to the Nouméa Accord have proven that goodwill and magnanimity are possible in our search for a win-win situation in New Caledonia, as witnessed by the 26 years of peace that have prevailed since the signing of the Nouméa Accord in 1998; and we call for a return to the spirit of the Nouméa Accord which recognizes the rights of the indigenous people of Kanaky-New Caledonia.

“We call on the French authorities to urgently make the announcement on the resumption of talks, convinced that this announcement will help create an environment conducive to the continuation of negotiations for a new political solution or agreement for the future of New Caledonia, which remains within the decolonization process envisaged in the Nouméa Accord.”

On 13 May 2024 protests and riots broke out in Noumea following a controversial voting reform aiming to change existing conditions that prevent up to one-fifth of the population from voting in provincial election.

In 1998 what is known as the Nouméa Accord was signed allowing New Caledonia to hold three referendums to decide on the future status of the territory, whether for New Caledonia to be independent from France or to remain under France.

As part of the Nouméa Accord of 1998, the population of New Caledonia continued to vote in national elections—for the French president and National Assembly—but the number of people who could vote in provincial elections and independence referendums was restricted.

This so-called “frozen electorate” consists only of those who were already living in New Caledonia in 1998 as well as their children, provided they maintained uninterrupted residence for ten years before each election.

This deprived later immigrants, whether European or Polynesian, of voting rights.

The FLNKS officially joined the MSG in 1989.

Thirty-nine percent of New Caledonia’s population is made up of

Kanaks make up 39 percent of New Caledonia’s population, and Europeans at 27 percent, most of whom were born in New Caledonia.

The rest of the population prefer to be identified as ‘Caledonian’ and are either migrants from other Pacific countries or are of mixed heritage.

“Go with a goal in mind”: Kerrie

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Miss Tourism Kerrie Faradatolo.

BY INDY MAEALASIA

As the countdown begins to the highly anticipated Miss Solomon Islands Pageant (MSIP) next month, one young woman is not only embracing the glamour and dazzle on stage but also seizing the opportunity to advocate for tourism and education.

Meet 25 year-old Kerrie Faradatolo from Malaita Province, a contestant of the 2024 MSIP and inspired to be raising her voice for a good cause.

“Growing up, I’ve always seen pageants happen. I saw it as a great platform for women and girls to advocate for particular issues that are affecting them directly or that are affecting people and society” Kerrie shared.

So when the opportunity came up, she did not let it slip “When I saw the ad on the last week before the closing of application, I had a chat with my coworkers and then I put in an application on the very last day and got in” Kerrie said.

Describing herself as “reserved”, Kerrie’s acceptance surprised her family but garnered support. “They are supportive and I’ve got a good team in the background cheering me on so I am excited for the journey” she said. 

Entering the pageant as Miss Tourism, she has set an ambitious goal, to promote the country’s tourism sector.

“We have a very vibrant tourism destination here but we need the support, we need the exposure. We need people to see how beautiful the Islands are and what we can offer and share with them” Kerrie emphasized.  

Beyond her advocacy for tourism, she is equipped with a Bachelor of Laws, Professional Diploma in Legal Practice, and a Professional Diploma in Legislative Drafting from the University of the South Pacific(USP). Kerrie is also passionate about advocating for the introduction of legal education into the current education system.

“Teach them young, set them on the straight road, get them to have an understanding and knowledge that there are laws we have in society, and it is backed by teaching from home” she emphasized.

“It goes hand in hand, home teaching, education and respect of the law” she added.

The road to the Miss Solomon Islands Pageant (MSIP) is undeniably intense, with all six contestants engaged in meticulous planning, and relentless preparation.

For Kerrie, who works as a senior legislative drafting counsel at the Attorney-General’s Chambers, striking a balance is key.

“I’m currently working so I have to find time to balance the priorities at work first, home and also the pageant events” she said.

But she remained optimistic “But I have a supportive team both at work, home and with my sponsors so we are pushing forward and we are going strong, I would say”

With only a month left to the grand event, in which the best will be selected to represent Solomon Islands in the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant to be held in Honiara on February 2024, Kerrie wants to be an inspiration to other younger women.

“Maintain your confidence, maintain your composure and go with a goal in mind. It is not about the pretty dresses or the makeup. It’s about achieving something and making something better for everyone” Kerrie added.

RFC24 Integrity Under Scrutiny

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RFC24 action at DC Park-PHOTO ELTON LONARATHA JNR.

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

THE Renbel Football Championship 2024 (RFC24) has been rocked by allegations of match-fixing following a contentious match between Sipa FC and Elite FC, leaving Pool A teams divided and the tournament’s integrity under scrutiny.

Last week, Sipa FC secured a decisive 6-1 victory over Elite FC, clinching their spot in the quarterfinals. This unexpected outcome raised eyebrows among fellow contenders Ngutuanga FC and Tauloto FC, who were also vying for advancement. Ngutuanga FC, in particular, voiced suspicions that the match may have been fixed, alleging that Sipa FC intentionally threw the game to secure their own qualification.

“We would never accept such a give-away win and a cheap flight to the knockout stage,” remarked Morris Maitaki, Manager of Ngutuanga FC, expressing dismay over the result. “Where is the transparency we always talk about in sports development?”

Tensions escalated further when Tauloto FC’s Coach, Mike Tuiakihenua, echoed calls for an investigation by the RFC24 Local Organizing Committee (LOC) into the match’s circumstances before proceeding with the quarterfinal fixtures.

In response to the allegations, Sipa FC’s Team Manager, Jimmy Ma’anumoana, vehemently denied any wrongdoing, emphasizing their rigorous preparation and determination to win. “We knew that the match was crucial for us,” Ma’anumoana clarified. “We prepared meticulously and made strategic adjustments to secure the victory. There was no prior communication with Elite FC regarding the match outcome.”

Ma’anumoana urged the involved parties to focus on the upcoming quarterfinals, dismissing the accusations as baseless. “It’s time to put this matter to rest and concentrate on our next challenge,” he insisted.

Despite the controversy swirling around Pool A, the RFC24 LOC confirmed that the quarterfinal fixtures are set and that remaining matches from both Pool A and Pool B will not proceed, as they would not impact the final standings. The committee expressed gratitude to all participating teams for their commitment and contributions to this year’s championship.

“In appreciation of your dedication, we look forward to your continued participation in future tournaments,” the RFC24 LOC stated in a release, seeking to move past the recent turmoil.

As the RFC24 moves forward, the focus now shifts to the quarterfinals, with Sipa FC set to face new challenges amid lingering doubts and calls for greater transparency in sports governance. The aftermath of this controversy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fair play and integrity in competitive sports, urging stakeholders to uphold these principles to preserve the spirit of the game.

In conclusion, while Sipa FC celebrates their qualification and prepares for the quarterfinals, questions raised by Ngutuanga FC and others underscore the need for thorough investigation and vigilance in ensuring a level playing field in future tournaments.

OLYMPIC DEBUT FOR MILLER

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Australian-based swimmer, 16-year-old Isabella Rose Miller. Photo supplied.

… 16-Year-Old Phenom Set to Make Waves in Paris

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

ISABELLA Rosa Miller, a 16-year-old swimmer, is set to make history as the lone female athlete representing the Solomon Islands at the Paris Summer Olympic 2024. Hailing from Malaita and Makira and currently residing in Australia, Miller was one of three athletes who represented the Solomon Islands at the Oceania Swimming Championships held at the Gold Coast Aquatic Center in Queensland, Australia, in April. Her outstanding performance at the Championships secured her a spot at the Paris Olympics.

Miller currently lives with her family in Australia, where she is undergoing rigorous preparations to ensure she performs well on the global stage for the first time in her career. She will compete in the 50-meter freestyle event, accompanied by her Swimming Head Coach, Stance Sanga.

In an interview with SunSPORTS, the soon-to-be 17-year-old expressed her excitement and honor in representing the Solomon Islands at the Olympics. “It will be fun, and I want to try my best when representing the country at the event,” she said. Despite the short notice, Miller’s training regimen includes twice-daily swim sessions and gym workouts. She acknowledged the challenges but remains grateful for the opportunity and the support she has received from her fans, coaches, and family.

As she prepares for this significant milestone in her swimming career, Miller is eager to gain valuable experience at the Olympic stage. She is aware of the high level of training her fellow competitors have undergone and is looking forward to the challenge. “I’m aware that all the swimming athletes competing at the Olympics are well-trained, and it will be interesting to find out and gain a lot of experience when competing,” she told SunSPORTS.

Miller will join the Team Solomon delegation in Brisbane before heading to Paris. Coach Sanga, who is also a part of the Team Solomon delegation, is set to depart for Paris today. “I will be traveling with representatives from the National Olympic Committee of Solomon Islands (NOCSI), Chef De Mission, and other teams for the Olympics. Miller and I will represent SISF in Paris,” Sanga told SunSPORTS.

World Aquatics Communication Manager Torin Koos confirmed Miller’s participation among the 69 Oceania athletes competing at the Paris Olympics. He highlighted the extensive participation, with 854 athletes (463 male and 391 female) from 187 countries, including the Individual Neutral Athletes and the IOC Refugee Olympic Team. “Each country could send at least two athletes to Paris through their NOC, demonstrating swimming’s universal appeal and inclusivity,” Koos noted.

Additionally, Koos revealed that five countries – Dominica, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Vanuatu – will make their Olympic swimming debuts at the Paris 2024 Games. The swimming competition, hosted at Europe’s largest indoor venue, the Paris La Defense Arena, will commence on July 27 and span nine days, concluding on August 4, featuring 35 swimming medal events.

The Team Solomon delegation is set to depart today from various locations, including Honiara, Brisbane, Dubai, Geneva, and Paris. This marks the beginning of their Olympic journey, with high hopes and expectations resting on their shoulders.

Miller’s journey to the Olympics is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and the unwavering support from her family and coaches.

As she steps onto the global stage, she carries with her the hopes and pride of the Solomon Islands.

Her participation not only highlights her personal achievements but also brings attention to the potential of athletes from the Solomon Islands in the international sports arena.

Suluka’s reflection on his life at sea

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    Captain Samuel Suluta

    BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

    Samuel Suluka started working in the shipping industry in 1979 after completing his maritime studies at the Marine Technical Institute now Solomon Islands National University.

    To build his career Mr Suluka made his way up in the shipping industry as a qualified seaman with the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Patrol Boat Auki.

    “After I ended my work with the RSIPF Marine Unit I joined other shipping companies,’’ said Captain Suluka from Lau Baelelea, Malaita province.

    The father of five who will turn 70 years old in July this year 2024 then later travelled to Fiji in 2024 to further his maritime study before returning to the Solomon Islands.

    “I studied here at the Solomon Islands Marine Technical Institute now SINU Marine School and then I went to further my studies at the Fiji Maritime College Academy for a year. I went to Fiji in 2014 for class three,’’ said Captain Suluka.

    Before he resigned from the shipping industry this year, experienced Suluka worked with a pre-eminent shipping and logistics company.

    “I just finished working from Silent World. I worked for six years. I just came down from the ship in May this year 2024 due to some family matters,’’ he said.

    While Mr Suluka enjoyed his life at sea as a captain he also faced countless challenges and risks as a seaman.

    “Yeah, as a seaman and especially Captain there’s a lot of challenges along the way which include decision making. The decision you make must be safe for everyone. Rough seas in open waters, sleepless nights, and many more. But you have to cope,’’ he said as he reflected.

    Amongst the challenges Captain Suluka worries Suluka was leaving his family back at home and spending months at sea.

    “You know as a husband you have to think about your family when spending weeks traveling. You might know what is going on with your children, those are one of the big challenges we seafarers usually face, especially when there is no communication,’’ he said.

    However, despite the challenges, Mr Suluka’s endeavoring to ensure his work is more conducive, he has to.

    “I have to because I come through since my early days as a seafarer working with many shipping companies till, I get married. And I also told my wife to understand my work when we are still yet in a relationship. So, she accepted it.

    Captain Suluka started his seafaring career after completing his qualification at the age of 26 years old.

    “Sometimes when I traveled back, I felt sorry since some of us seafarers have already gone and some of us are still alive today,’’ he said.

    After withdrawing as a captain, Mr Suluka has now concentrated on household work with his family.

    A relief for Susan and Rose

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      Mrs Rose Sila.

      BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

      Susan Paeni and Rose Sila, local farmers from the GIPPOL area in Guadalcanal, reside in the mountains and have been selling their produce at the Honiara Central Market to provide for their families.

      They, like other vendors, used to suffer the sun and rain while selling their products before the new Honiara Central Market extension building was built.

      The inauguration of the new Honiara Central Market extension this week brought immense relief to Paeni, aged 48, and Sila, aged 42, who are both hardworking mothers. Before the construction of this extension, they encountered numerous difficulties.

      “We used to display our goods on cement and seek shelter under umbrellas. In our efforts to provide for our families, we endured the scorching sun and heavy rain. This was a familiar struggle for us,’’ Mrs. Paeni recalled.

      Susan Paeni

      Mrs. Paeni expressed her gratitude for the extension of the selling area, as it has eased the challenges of not being able to sell products or selling them late due to limited space.

      “With the new space, I can now comfortably sell my vegetables, fruits, and root crops in a more favorable environment without having to stand or sit under umbrellas from the sun for long hours,’’ she said.

      Mrs. Sila, a 45-year-old mother of six, travels back home every day after finishing her sales. She lives in the mountains and has two children who are currently in school. She expressed her happiness about completing the extension project.

      “It was a relief for all local rural women farmers in Guadalcanal,’’ 45-year-old Sila told Island Sun in an exclusive interview.

      Mrs. Sila, who usually sells bananas, cucumbers, and pawpaw, resides at Gold Ridge and has to wake up early in the morning to prepare her produce before heading to the Honiara Central Market.

      While traveling downtown in the truck, Mrs. Sila pondered whether they would arrive on time for her to set up her products for the day’s sale. She also wondered where she would be able to sell her products.

      “These questions often cross my mind, especially when we are required to sell outside due to limited space,’’ she said.

      Mrs. Sila, a 45-year-old mother supporting her five children who are currently attending school, must ensure that all her products for the day are sold out.

      The mother of five expressed the difficulty of enduring the scorching sun and spending long hours under an umbrella during rainy days.

      The new Honiara Central Market extension.

      “We have often had to endure both the rain and the sun due to our struggle to meet our children’s school fees. Despite the numerous challenges, I continue to make sacrifices to provide for my family and ensure my children receive the necessary support for their education.

      “I have to accept the situation. When it rains, we must find shelter, and even under the hot sun, we have to locate shade, possibly in the nearby stores. The announcement of the market extension plans generated excitement, especially among us, the farmers. Many of us, particularly the farmers, are thankful to those responsible for this development. In gratitude, I would like to say thank you,” Mrs. Sila echoed.

      Ngossi ward sports day triumphs

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      Champions of the Ngossi Ward Independence Day seven-aside soccer competition recieving their trophy from Honorable Rex Konofilia on Thursday at White River School field. Photo supplied.

      BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

      THE Ngossi Ward Independence Sports Day concluded successfully this week with a prize presentation at White River School. The event, which began over the weekend, saw teams from the surrounding Ngossi Ward community competing in 3×3 Basketball and seven-a-side soccer.

      This initiative, spearheaded by Ward Councilor and Chairman of the HCC Works Division, Honorable Rex Konofilia, aims to unite West Honiara communities and uncover local sporting talent.

      The seven-a-side soccer tournament commenced on Saturday and culminated in Thursday’s prize presentation. The 3×3 Basketball competition was a one-day event held on Sunday, with its presentation taking place the same day.

      Honorable Rex Konofilia, during the prize presentation for the seven-a-side soccer winners, celebrated the success of the six-day Ngossi Ward Independence tournament.

      “This event is not about its prizes but about unifying our people, the people of Ngossi Ward. We must develop in our youths a sense of belonging, responsibility, and ownership of our beloved Ngossi Ward. Through unity, we can confront and overcome the pressing issues and challenges we face in our daily lives within our communities, and that is what should be captured through our participation in this tournament,” Konofilia stated.

      Konofilia also expressed gratitude to Bulk Shop for supporting the event with trophies, emphasizing the community’s appreciation and hopes for ongoing support.

      “Thank you to all participating teams and the community of White River for being the host. Special appreciation goes to the supporters for your tireless efforts in supporting our teams and making this tournament a success. God bless our beloved Ngossi Ward. Our games, our ward, one people,” he concluded.

      The Ngossi Ward Independence Sports Day not only highlighted local sporting talents but also fostered a sense of unity and community spirit among the participants and residents.

      Meanwhile, the order of presentation for the two sports delivered at the event is as follows:

      (Seven-aside Soccer)

      1st Valbros Heights

      2nd Ngossi

      3rd Central White river

      4th 7-Up

      (3X3 Basketball)

      1st Ngossi Knightz DP

      2nd RRR Snakes

      3rd Whiteriver Rukiez

      4th Ngossi Nightz

      Mars United FC vows to reclaim champions title

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      BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

      FORMER Honiara Football Association (HFA) champions, Mars United FC, have pledged to return stronger in the upcoming season, set to kick off next month, with the aim of reclaiming their championship title.

      Coach Freddie Kini expressed his optimism to SunSPORTS after Mars United FC’s 2-1 defeat to Henderson Eels FC in the grand final of the HFA 2023/24 season, held earlier this week at Lawson Tama Stadium. Despite the setback, Kini remains confident about the team’s prospects in the new season.

      “It was a good game, but unfortunately, we didn’t execute our game plan well and got defeated by our opponents,” Kini remarked. “We had chances to win the match, but the boys failed to capitalize on key opportunities. However, I’m happy with their hard work and performance.”

      Coach Kini also extended his congratulations to Henderson Eels FC for winning their first HFA title. “Henderson Eels FC has good players and were the better side during the grand final match. Despite our defeat, we have taken many positives from the game, which will serve as valuable lessons as we prepare for the new season,” he said.

      Looking ahead, Kini emphasized the need for Mars United FC to step up their preparations for the new season. “We will continue to work towards the new season to reclaim our title. There is a lot of work to do, but I am confident the team will be ready before the season begins,” he assured.

      While the team passed the title to Henderson Eels FC, Coach Kini thanked the fans and supporters for their unwavering support. “We will not give up and will continue to strive to retain the champions tag this season,” he added.

      Mars United FC’s commitment to bouncing back stronger highlights their determination to regain their status as champions in the upcoming HFA season.

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