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Meriblouse initiative hands over items to NRH

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Ofani Eremae
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The Meriblouse Initiative members with the Oncology staff pose with the new stand banner Photo By Meriblouse Initiative.

By Indy Maealasia

The Meriblouse Initiative, a Honiara-based Papua New Guinea women’s group handed over gifts to the National Referral Hospital’s (NRH) Oncology Unit on Wednesday.

A laptop, projector and stand banner were gifted to the ward in an effort to assist them in raising awareness to tackle cancer.

Upon receiving the gifts, Oncology Ward’s Coordinator, Dr Andrew Soma acknowledged the help the Initiative have given towards the unit in the previous year.

With the kind gesture of gifts, he explained how these items would be of great assistance towards their fight against cancer.

“These are the important items we wanted for a while. Sometimes we borrow laptops or projector before we could carry out awareness, other times, we just head out and only have discussions. This will be an important part of the prevention awareness since awareness is more affordable compared to treatments,” Soma said.

Addressing the staff of the Oncology unit, Meriblouse Initiative’s founder, Kathy Havea spoke on how the initiative hope the gifted items would greatly assist them.

“We hope these will help you to prevent cancer and to reduce the number of breast cancer, cervical cancer and prostate cancer as some of us have also lost loved ones to this disease,” Mrs Havea added.

The Meriblouse Initiative was formed in 2022 with the primary goal to spread awareness on breast cancer.

For the past year they raised $20,000 which was used to purchase the items gifted to the unit.

Warrant of arrest out for man charged with domestic violence

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Ofani Eremae
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BY ROMINAH FAKA

Court has issued a warrant of arrest on a man accused of domestic violence.

Steven Haukui is charged with one count of domestic violence.

Prosecution yesterday told court that an old warrant of arrest was still to be carried out on the accused because they could not find him.

Court issued a new warrant, instructing police to find Mr Haukui and arrest him as soon as possible.

Defence also told court that the accused could not be reached. Haukui’s mobile phone has been switched off the whole time, defence told court.

Court adjourned for September 27 to give time for police to execute the warrant of arrest.

Police alleged that defendant Steven Haukui and the complainant were husband and wife. Both lived at Mbokona, powerhouse area.

It was alleged in Honiara on February 23, 2023 Haukui physically abused the complainant by doing a conduct that caused her bodily pain.

He allegedly slapped her right-side cheek and dragged her down the ladder and cut her back with a hand saw and kicked her forehead twice and punch her left jaw using both of his hand close fist and leg.  

Matter was later reported to the Central Police Station on March 10, 2023, the defendant was arrested and charged accordingly.

Police prosecution appears for the Crown and Public Solicitor Office appears for the defence.

Man pleads guilty to robbery

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Ofani Eremae
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In-court

BY ROMINAH FAKA

A man has pleaded guilty to robbery before the court.

Ali Temoana appeared in court yesterday before Principal Magistrate Elma Veenah Rizzu Hilly.

Mr Temoana was charged with one count of robbery.

Prosecution told court that they had already served the agreed facts to the defence.

Defence then sought a seven-day adjournment to look through the facts and also to prepare written sentencing submissions as well.

Magistrate Hilly instructed both counsels to file the sentencing submission and agreed facts before close of business on September 20.

Court adjourned for September 21 for closing sentencing submission and agreed facts.

Bail was extended for the defendant.

Court had heard that Temoana on January 15, 2023 in Honiara, was armed with a small kitchen knife and robbed the complainant.

He was reported to the Central Police Station on February 8, 2023 and was arrested and charged accordingly.

Public Prosecution appears for Crown and Public Solicitor Office appears for the defence.

Bemobile partners with Seif Ples to offer toll-free support for GBV survivors

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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CEO for bmobile Solomon Islands Devan Kula shakes hand with Seif Ples Centre Manager Brightly Beauty.

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

Bemobile is teaming up with Seif Ples in a significant partnership. CEO Devan Kula has signed an agreement to provide Bemobile subscribers with toll-free access to the number 132.

This partnership is all about recognising the outstanding work of both organisations, especially Seif Ples’ support for survivors of gender-based violence. It’s part of the Child Fund Impact Project, which aims to strengthen crisis response services for women, children, and youth in the Solomon Islands.

CEO Kula said Bemobile has a zero-tolerance policy on violence and is happy to partner with Seif Ples to promote their work in protecting the people especially victims and survivors.

“We are proud to offer this support to you and we look forward to working with you in other future projects,” Kula said.

Meanwhile Seif Ples Centre Manager Brightlyn Beauty than Bemobile for their support towards them.

She explained that Seif Ples had one project with Child Fund and one of the project’s key goals is to expand access to the Seif Ples Helpline, especially in rural areas. Previously, victims using Bemobile networks couldn’t make free calls to the existing service provided by Solomon Telekom Company Limited. But now, Bemobile will offer toll-free service on line 132, absolutely free of charge.

In return, Seif Ples will cover the one-time installation cost of the toll-free service, give Bemobile shoutouts in their activities, and provide valuable training on gender-based violence to Bemobile staff.

This partnership is a significant achievement and a step forward in promoting safety, protection, and recovery for survivors of gender-based violence. It allows more people to report cases of abuse and seek support.

Seif Ples has been operating a national 24/7 helpline since 2015, initially exclusive to Telekom users. Now, with Bemobile’s support, this lifeline becomes more accessible.

Child Fund is providing financial support for this project, ensuring its success. The collaboration will continue for 24 months, with the possibility of renewal in the future. Together, Seif Ples, Bemobile, and Child Fund are making a positive impact in the Solomon Islands and beyond.

Election candidate pleads guilty to electoral breach

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Ofani Eremae
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BY ROMINAH FAKA

Election candidate Junior Silas Ika Philip has pleaded guilty to failing to submit his campaign expenses and fund sources.

Yesterday before Principal Magistrate Elma Veenah Rizzu Hilly Mr Philip pleaded guilty to the criminal charge laid against him by police.

In the previous court hearing of his case, Ika Junior pleaded not guilty to the charge however, yesterday his lawyer told court that his client has changed his plea.

Court adjourned to September 28 for the agreed facts and sentencing submission from the counsels. Also, court instructed the counsels to file the documents before close of business on September 27.

Bail was extended for the defendant.

It was alleged Philip registered as a candidate of the East Kwaio Constituency in 2019 National General Election.

On July 19 and 20, 2019 Ika Junior failed to submit to the Chief Electoral Officer of the Solomon Islands Commission, a statement of account in an approved form, specifying the expenses incurred during his campaign for the National General Election and the source of all funds used to meet those expenses.

Public Prosecution appears for the Crown and Public Solicitor Office appears for the defence.

RSIPF leaders conclude conference, prepare for PG23 and NGE24 with commitment to safety

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Jennifer Kusapa
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Police Commissioner Mostyn Mangau

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

The Provincial Police Commanders (PPCs) and Departmental Directors of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) successfully concluded a three-day conference in the capital, Honiara, on September 13, 2023.

This significant gathering brought together PPCs from various provinces and Departmental Directors of the RSIPF to strategize and prepare for two major upcoming events, the Pacific Games 2023 (PG23) and the National General Election 2024 (NGE24).

The conference commenced earlier in the week, with the honor of an official opening program presided over by the Minister of Police, National Security, and Correctional Service, Honorable Anthony Veke. The theme for this event was “Strengthening and Promoting Policing Operational Capability and Capacity in Partnership with Stakeholders and Communities for a Safer Solomon Islands through Shared Experience.”

Commissioner Mostyn Mangau said the conference’s central focus was on enhancing and refining the operational work plans and priorities for implementation during PG23 and NGE24. This meticulous planning is vital to guarantee the safety and security of Solomon Islands during these pivotal events.

He called upon law-abiding citizens to collaborate closely with the RSIPF.

“Let us all come together to make PG23 and NGE24 truly memorable occasions, not only for our children but also to showcase to the world our ability to successfully organize such large-scale events in the future.” Mangau said.

Mr. Mangau’s appeal continued with a call for a united effort to ensure these two major events remain crime-free.

He said public need to work together hand in hand to safeguard the peace and security of our nation during these critical moments.

Caution issued for cross-border registrants in Guadalcanal

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Cross-border voters in Guadalcanal are urged to exercise great caution to register elsewhere as they may jeopardise their chances to vote in the coming national general election.

The warning was issued following unconfirmed reports that another vessel carrying potential cross-border registrants is heading for East Guadalcanal in the coming days.

Registration Manager, Guadalcanal Province Freddie Don Ricky said aspiring cross-border voters who intend on registering in another constituency other than the ones they have previously registered might ran the risk of having their names removed from the final voters list.

During the objection and omission phase of the voter registration process in November, names of cross-border registrants maybe removed where local residents objected to the inclusion of names in the provisional voters list, he said.

To avoid this taking place, it is advisable that eligible voters remain at their respective constituencies to vote.

He said in the situation where the names of cross-border registrants are objected and removed from the provisional voters list, the names of such registrants may cease to appear altogether, effectively denying the voters the chance to exercise their voting rights.

Already cross-border movements have resulted in much agitation and unease amongst ordinary local residents who see the influx of cross-border registrants into East Guadalcanal as an attempt by intending candidates to influence the outcome of the national general election in their favour, he said.

Ricky said his office has requested police presence at the registration centres in East Guadalcanal throughout the registration period as disgruntled local residents have taken to intimidating and harassing cross-border registrants during the past week.

“Cross-border registration in East Guadalcanal remains a potential security concern until voters in other constituencies and provinces refrain from going there to register.

“While there might be financial or material inducements on offer for eligible voters to register there, they must thoroughly weigh the consequences of undertaking cross-border registration to avoid any mishap that might result in their disqualification,” he said.

CHURCH ELDER BLAMED

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SIEC Chief Electoral Officer, Jasper Highwood Anisi.

Concerns arise over voter registration conducted in Central Honiara

Residents of Central Honiara are calling for the South Seas Evangelical Church (SSEC) to take action against its workers involved in the voter registration process.

Allegations have emerged that an elder from the SSEC’s Matariu church branch falsely witnessed for an individual from another constituency to register in Central Honiara.

The elder reportedly claimed to have a personal connection with the individual, justifying their eligibility to vote in Central Honiara.

Critics argue that such actions do not align with the high moral standards expected of church elders, and they suspect political affiliations may be a motivating factor. They believe the elder in question supports the current Member of Central Honiara, Alfred Efona.

Residents are urging the SSEC Headquarters to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter, especially since it involves church elders directly engaging in politics.

Meanwhile, the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) has voiced its concerns regarding cross-border registration issues within the electoral system.

Jasper Highwood Anisi, the Chief Electoral Officer of SIEC, emphasized that, despite provisions allowing individuals to register in multiple constituencies, the problem of cross-border voting persists.

Anisi stressed that genuine connections to a constituency, such as blood relations or residency, are essential for eligibility to vote in that constituency.

These developments highlight growing concerns about the integrity of the voter registration process and the need for oversight to ensure fair and lawful participation in elections.

World summit to build strategies for peace

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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Promotional poster of HWPL Chairman Lee with the theme ‘We Are One’ of the 9th Anniversary to be marked on September 18.

“The 9th Anniversary of the September 18th HWPL World Peace Summit” will be held in the Republic of Korea for four days, from September 18 to 21 with participation of about 1,800 global leaders.

The event will be hosted by an international peace NGO, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) in UN ECOSOC special consultative status.

This 9th-anniversary celebration will look back on the achievements of the past 10 years and discuss the theme of “Implementation of Multidimensional Strategies for Institutional Peace”.

Leaders in politics, education, religion, women’s groups, youth groups, and the media from around the world will participate in discussions aimed at implementing strategies within each sector’s initiatives.

The sessions will cover various agendas, including the spread of a culture of institutional peace, the expansion of comparative scriptural studies, long-term peacebuilding through education, and the development of policies for promoting a culture of peace.

The concept of “Institutional Peace” as proposed by HWPL, advocates for international agreements aimed at establishing sustainable peace with frameworks based on the principles outlined in the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW).

The DPCW is presented as a tool of peace continuum from prevention and resolving conflicts to further promoting a culture of understanding and cooperation among nations and peoples.

HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee emphasised that the participation of people from all around the world is absolutely necessary to achieve peace.

“We (HWPL) have circled the globe 32 times to carry out the work of peace. The ultimate goal has been achieving peace.

“Whether it’s within families, schools, or any other organisation, peace is a vital need.

“Not a single person has rejected the idea of peace.

“Therefore, I firmly believe that peace will be attained.”

Forum Foreign Ministers gather in Fiji to address crucial regional priorities

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Jennifer Kusapa
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BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

FOREIGN ministers of member countries of the Pacific Forum are in Suva, Fiji, this week for their annual discussions on the Blue Pacific.

These discussions centre on issues pertaining critical regional priorities to the Blue Pacific.

Scheduled for September 15, this meeting will be presided over by the host Chair of the forthcoming Forum Leaders Meeting in the Cook Islands, Prime Minister Hon Mark Brown.

One of the primary agenda items for deliberation is the implementation plan for the 2050 Strategy. The endorsement of the five-year implementation plan is slated to take place at the upcoming Forum Leaders Meeting.

In alignment with the objectives of the 2050 Strategy, the Ministers will engage in discussions covering global and regional strategic trends and dynamics, the pressing issue of the climate crisis, and a renewed declaration on gender equality.

These discussions will encompass the region’s crucial engagement and advocacy priorities, which encompass preparations for the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA78), the US-PIF Summit, the forthcoming Forum Leaders Meeting, COP28, and Japan’s proposed release of treated Fukushima nuclear wastewater into the Pacific Ocean.

Additionally, the Forum Foreign Ministers will delve into the outcomes of recent Ministerial Meetings. These include the Pacific Islands Forum Women Leaders Meeting, the Forum Economic Ministerial, and the Forum Fisheries Ministerial Meeting hosted by the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA).

Henry Puna, the Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, emphasized, “In addition to the extensive work centered around the implementation of the 2050 plan and international engagement and advocacy.

 “We have significant tasks ahead due to the outcomes of these recent Ministerial Meetings,” Puna said.

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