By EDDIE OSIFELO

PRIME Minister Manasseh Sogavare has called for the establishment of a permanent seat within the international financial architecture for Small Islands Developing States (SIDS).

His impassioned plea for inclusivity and representation came during his address at the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) debate held in New York, USA on Saturday.

In his speech, Prime Minister Sogavare expressed strong support for the upcoming Fourth Small Islands Developing Countries Conference, slated to convene in Antigua and Barbuda in May 2024.

He said this gathering is anticipated to chart a roadmap of collective action aimed at advancing the Sustainable Development Goals for SIDS, building upon the SAMOA Pathway framework.

Sogavare emphasized the significance of this new partnership, describing it as “ambitious” and a reaffirmation of global commitment to addressing the unique and special needs of Small Islands Developing States.

Regarding the development of the Multi-Dimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI), Sogavare reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ support for its adoption, operationalization, and implementation during the 78th UN General Assembly.

The MVI, a SIDS initiative, takes into account the multifaceted vulnerabilities faced by SIDS, especially in the context of recovery and resilience-building.

Sogavare underscored the necessity for reform within International Financial Institutions to address the distinct vulnerabilities of Small Islands Developing States.

He argued that this reform is imperative to facilitate a more tailored and responsive approach to the financial needs and challenges faced by SIDS.

The Prime Minister’s call at the United Nations General Assembly reflects the pressing need for global cooperation to address the unique challenges faced by Small Islands Developing States.

Establishing a permanent seat for SIDS in international financial decision-making bodies is seen as a crucial step toward ensuring their concerns and perspectives are adequately represented and addressed on the global stage.

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

THE Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) in partnership with the Honiara City Council (HCC) Law Enforcement to address illegal activities in the city.

According to Police Media Unit said the effort is to ensure safety and security during the Pacific Games 2023 (PG23).

The operation focused on crime hotspots, including Kukum, Bahai, Central Market, Hapai, and the Yacht Club area. Throughout the operation, law enforcement officers engaged with the community through awareness talks, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe and orderly environment.

As officers conducted foot patrols from Honiara Central Market to the Yacht Club, they issued warnings to individuals involved in undesirable activities. Notably, during searches near the main road, officers confiscated bottles of kwaso (homebrew), a locally brewed alcoholic beverage known for its detrimental effects.

Provincial Police Commander (PPC) for Honiara City, Chief Superintendent Jimson Robo, reported that two individuals were apprehended for the possession of illegal drugs, specifically marijuana. These suspects were dealt with according to the law.

PPC Robo emphasized, “In preparation for PG23 and in alignment with the ‘Safe and Green Games’ theme, the police and HCC Law Enforcement are committed to creating a secure environment for all. We will not tolerate any form of criminal activity and urge our law-abiding citizens to collaborate with the RSIPF.”

He added, “More similar operations will be carried out in the upcoming days as part of our preparations for PG23. Our goal is to ensure that our city becomes a safe place where residents and visitors can move freely without fear.”

The joint operation signifies the dedication of law enforcement agencies to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for participants and spectators during PG23, demonstrating their commitment to upholding law and order in Honiara.

Japan expresses disappointment over PM Sogavare’s statement at UNGA against discharge of ALPS treated water

BY NED GAGAHE

JAPAN has expressed disappointment at Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare statement at the recent 78^th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) against the release of ALPS nuclear treated water.

Japan made an immediate reply after Prime Minister Sogavare statement.

Japan Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nation, His Excellency Ambassador Shino Mitsuko said the Government of Japan has always provided detailed explanations on this matter to the international community, including PIF members, based on scientific evidence in a transparent manner.

H.E Shino statement was then reinforced by His Excellency Miwa Yoshiaki, the Japanese Ambassador to Solomon Islands yesterday afternoon at a media conference with the local media.

Ambassador Miwa said that they were disappointed because the issue was brought to the attention of the Solomon Islands Government on several occasion since early this year.

He said on 15 February he had an audience with the Prime Minister and then on March 19 this year Japan’s former Foreign Minister visited the country and met with the Prime Minister.

Miwa said on these occasions Japan’s position was communicated precisely to the Solomon Islands Government.

Ambassador Miwa adds that since the Solomon Islands Government and Japan established diplomatic relations never had they experienced a strong statement coming from the Solomon Islands Government except for what had happened last Friday and the UNGA meeting.

Miwa said that the only responds they received from the Solomon Islands Government is that Solomon Islands Government stance will be on scientific data and solidarity with the Pacific Island Forum countries.

In his statement at UNGA Sogavare said that IAEAs assessment report is inconclusive and that the scientific data shared remains inadequate, incomplete and biased.

Sogavare adds that these concerns were ignored and if this nuclear waste water is safe, it should be stored in Japan.

He said the fact that is dumped into the ocean shows that it is not safe.

Responding to Prime Minister Sogavare’s tough statement, Ambassador Miwa said they were utterly disappointed that such statement was never communicated or brought to their attention even through the diplomatic channel where these issues should be communicated and explained.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Miwa said it is Japan’s wishes that he discusses with the Prime Minister on the issue.       

“We hope we can discuss very frankly as Prime Minister Sogavare egressed his opinion in his statement, we have to be frank and honest, we are also on the same opinion. We want to sort this issue bilaterally.

“If the Prime Minister can sermon me, anytime, I am ready to visit his office again at any time, either it be in the early morning, at late night, Saturday, Sunday, Christmas or anytime I can go.” 

By EDDIE OSIFELO

PRIME Minister Manasseh Sogavare delivered a powerful address at the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, USA, addressing historical injustices and highlighting the country’s commitment to disability rights.

Sogavare emphasized that the Pacific had been a victim of power politics long before becoming a member of the United Nations.

He cited the Battle of Guadalcanal, a fierce World War II battle that was not of their making, as an example of the conflicts that affected the region.

He lamented the lack of urgency eight decades ago to remove unexploded ordnance (UXOs), which continues to threaten the Solomon Islands, both in terms of finances and lives lost.

In recognition of the ongoing assistance from the United States in UXO removal efforts, Sogavare expressed gratitude but also called for further action.

He urged responsible nations to contribute to the removal of UXOs and provide compensation to the affected and bereaved families

Prime Minister Sogavare also addressed the historical issue of nuclear testing in the Pacific, revealing that approximately 300 nuclear devices were tested in the region from 1946 to 1996, including in the Marshall Islands, French Polynesia, and Kiribati.

He stressed that the Pacific islands had no say in these tests and called for fair compensation for the affected countries and their people.

Additionally, Sogavare announced that the Solomon Islands had ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability.

He underscored the significance of the National Disability Inclusive Policy and the Mental Health Policy as frameworks for the implementation of measures to promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment and mechanisms to ensure that individuals with disabilities can exercise their fundamental rights as enshrined in the nation’s Constitution.

Prime Minister Sogavare’s address at the UNGA sheds light on the historical challenges faced by the Solomon Islands and the Pacific region while emphasizing the importance of addressing these issues for the well-being and rights of its people.

Solomon Islands strongly condemns Japan’s discharge of nuclear wastewater

By EDDIE OSIFELO

PRIME Minister Manasseh Sogavare of Solomon Islands delivered a resolute condemnation of Japan’s decision to release over one million tonnes of treated nuclear wastewater into the ocean during his address at the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, USA.

In his impassioned speech, Prime Minister Sogavare expressed solidarity with fellow Pacific island nations, strongly objecting to Japan’s actions.

He pointed out that the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) assessment report on the matter was inconclusive and that the shared scientific data was deemed inadequate, incomplete, and biased.

Prime Minister Sogavare questioned the safety of the discharged nuclear wastewater, stating, “If this nuclear wastewater is safe, it should be stored in Japan. The fact that it is being dumped into the ocean shows that it is not safe.”

He highlighted the transboundary and intergenerational effects of this decision, characterizing it as an attack on global trust and solidarity.

Furthermore, Sogavare underscored the grave risks posed by the continued discharge of treated nuclear water into the Pacific Ocean over a span of 30-plus years.

He urged Japan to explore alternative solutions for addressing the issue and called for an immediate halt to the discharge.

He emphasized the importance of protecting the oceans, which are integral to the well-being and future of Pacific island communities.

Prime Minister Sogavare stated, “If we are to rebuild trust and reignite global solidarity, we must be honest and frank in protecting our oceans, which are the lifeblood of our people.”

Japan commenced the discharge of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant on August 24, despite international opposition, notably from China.

Sogavare framed his stance as a moral and ethical obligation to advocate for humanity, particularly the voiceless and future generations.

He emphasized the deep connection between Pacific islanders and the ocean, declaring, “We are the ocean, it is our past, our present, our future. It is the foundation of our very existence, it is our identity.”

He implored Japan to halt the discharge, warning that history would be the judge if they do not.

Prime Minister Sogavare also highlighted the enduring impact of nuclear testing and dumping by big powers in the Pacific.

He reiterated Solomon Islands’ commitment to maintaining a nuclear-free Pacific, referencing their ratification of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty earlier in the year.

He expressed concern about the development of military nuclear capabilities in the Pacific region and its potential to jeopardize the region’s nuclear-free status.

The international community is closely watching this issue as it unfolds, and

Prime Minister Sogavare’s impassioned plea echoes the sentiments of many Pacific Island nations.

By EDDIE OSIFELO

Chief John Marawa of Sulukokolo land in South Malaita has urged the Minister of Forestry and Research to cancel the felling license of Southern Enterprises Sawmilling.

This request comes in the wake of allegations that the company, a licensee of Graceland Logging Company Limited, engaged in illegal logging on Sulukokolo’s customary land.

Southern Enterprises Sawmilling claimed to have obtained an access agreement with George Kio, who was appointed as the ‘caretaker’ of Sulukokolo land in the absence of the Complainant party. However, Chief Marawa denied granting any such consent or authority to George Kio.

Chief Marawa also raised concerns about the legitimacy of the company’s license, as the Malaita Province and the Ministry of Forestry and Research could not locate the company’s file.

He called on the Ministry to investigate the company’s logging operations, alleging that they did not follow the proper Ministry’s processes.

“Every person involved with Southern Enterprise Sawmilling used the same form for logging, including their operations on Sulukokolo land,” Chief Marawa noted, expressing worry about the environmental damage caused by their activities.

Chief Marawa appealed to Minister Mua to cancel the company’s license, stating that failure to do so would condone corruption.

Additionally, Chief Marawa urged the Malaita Province Executive to write to Grace Logging Company, requesting that they cease operations in Small Malaita, as their practices appear to be illegal within the province’s jurisdiction.

Minister Mua has decided to defer the suspension of Southern Enterprise Sawmilling’s felling license A10112 under Section 39(2) of the Forest Resources and Timber Utilization Act. This decision is contingent upon the resolution of the encroachment issue on Sulukokolo customary lands between the Appellant and Grace Logging (SI) Limited. The Minister assures all parties that this decision is made with fairness and justice in mind, allowing for disputes to be resolved and all parties’ interests to be considered.