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MP Seleso Takes Action to Provide Relief Rice Supply to Rain-Affected Constituents in South Guadalcanal

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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Member of Parliament for South Guadalcanal and Minister of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening, Rollen Seleso

By EDDIE OSIFELO

MEMBER of Parliament for South Guadalcanal, Rollen Seleso, has taken a proactive approach to assist his constituents who have been grappling with the aftermath of nearly five months of continuous rainfall, resulting in landslides and flooding.

In response to the delayed National Government response to this humanitarian disaster, Seleso has personally procured 4,000 bags of rice to distribute to the affected villages within his constituency.

The relief efforts commenced last Thursday with the arrival of the Constituency’s vessel, ‘MV Southern Coast,’ which transported an initial batch of rice supplies to various villages:

Komate village received 765 bags of rice.

Horobau was allocated 130 bags of rice.

Kolina benefitted from 390 bags of rice.

Viso received 179 bags of rice.

Additional rice deliveries are scheduled to reach Peochakuri, Kolehula, and Haliatu over the weekend.

The comprehensive delivery of rice supplies from Maleheti to Malahisu in Talishe ward is expected to conclude by the upcoming Wednesday.

Seleso explained his decision to intervene was driven by the extended bureaucratic processes involved in obtaining assistance from the National Disaster Management Organization (NDMO).

Typically, this entails an assessment conducted by a team organized by Guadalcanal Province, followed by the submission of a report to NDMO, which then engages with the government to secure funding from donors for relief support.

However, Seleso noted that this process had previously resulted in delays, leaving his constituents in need.

Seleso stressed the importance of facilitating NDMO’s assessment process and underscored the necessity of having an official report in place to coordinate assistance efforts.

He acknowledged that, following the cessation of heavy rains, his constituents would face approximately three months of food shortages due to the adverse effects of the rain and climate change on their agricultural endeavors.

Consequently, he welcomed support from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) while emphasizing the requirement for a comprehensive report to streamline relief efforts effectively.

Election candidate faces court

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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BY ROMINAH FAKA

An election candidate is facing court for allegedly failing to acquit his campaign spending.

Philip Silas Ika Junior appeared in court yesterday before Principal Magistrate Elma Veenah Rizzu Hilly for his plea.

However, the defendant could not take his plea because Prosecution did an amendment to the charge inside court.

Thus, court advised Mr Ika Jr to seek advice from his lawyer before entering a plea.

The magistrate was disappointed with prosecution for not preparing before coming to court.

She also told prosecution and defence that it is important to check their file and work before coming to court, so that such incidents will not occur in the future.

Court adjourned the matter for today for the defendant to take his plea.

Bail was extended for defendant.

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

July 19-20, 2019 Silas allegedly failed to submit to the Chief Electoral Officer of the Solomon Islands Electoral 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 PSO appears for the defence.

Court to decide on constitutional amendment act next week

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

CHIEF Justice Sir Albert Palmer is set to make a critical decision concerning the strikeout application related to the Constitutional amendment addressing the extension of the parliament.

The case came back in court yesterday and the defendants presented their submissions under Rule 9.75 of the High Court Civil Procedure Rules 2007, seeking to have the case dismissed. They argue that the issues raised by the Leader of Independent are frivolous, vexatious, lack reasonable cause of action, and amount to an abuse of the court’s processes.

The defendants put forward that Parliament has adhered to the provisions stipulated in s. 61 (3) of the Constitution and the standing orders of Parliament Orders 47 and 48. They highlight that a substantial two-thirds majority of all members has supported the bill, which has successfully gone through second readings. Consequently, the defendants assert that the High Court lacks jurisdiction to delve into parliamentary proceedings.

Meanwhile, Billy Titiulu, the legal representative for the Leader of Independent, Dean Kuku, countered the defendants’ claims. Titiulu argued that the proceedings and inquiries initiated are not vexatious and, in fact, present a reasonable cause of action. He urged the court to proceed in a normal manner being with section 61 of the constitution

Titiulu emphasised that section 61 of the constitution outlines the specific procedure that parliament must adhere to. He highlighted that the Constitution Amendment Bill 2022, introduced in parliament on December 8, 2022, falls within under those types of laws that governed in procedure by section 61(3) of the constitution.

With several relevant issues raised in his submissions, Titiulu urged the court to reject the defendants’ application.

The challenge was brought by Independent Leader Dean Kuku, who raised several questions about the constitutionality of the process and sought answers from the court, relating to whether the constitutional process was breached by parliament in the passage of the constitution to delay elections by seven months.

Dean Kuku, through his lawyer Billy Tititulu, named the Speaker of Parliament Patteson Oti, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, and His Excellency the Governor General as the defendants in the case.

Aqorau vows to uphold high governance standards, reporting channels during his tenure at SINU

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Vice Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau.Photo supplied.

BY NED GAGAHE

Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Vice Chancellor says his mission as the third Vice Chancellor is to see that a robust foundation of good governance and proper reporting channels are rooted at SINU during his tenure.

Professor Transform Aqorau reiterated this in a statement this week stating that his aims are to boost the core values of the institution and to encourage donors to invest, especially in the optimization of information management systems and processes.

“We are determined to shield our systems from any potential manipulation and corrosion.

Professor Aqorau whilst emphasizing the importance of due diligence in every university procedure also appealed to the members of SINU community and the public to report any improprieties through the right and proper channels.

Aqorau said a thorough and proper investigation is only possible when allegations are backed by evidentiary support and submitted in writing to the University Management.

With the evolving digital landscape, Aqorau highlighted a personal Facebook post does not serve as an official report.

“Basing investigations on social media posts can set a precarious precedent. It’s essential to distinguish between a post and a formal complaint.

“Should you be aware of any discrepancies, I implore you to make a formal written complaint. This ensures that the matter is given the appropriate attention and due diligence.” Aqorau said.

On that note, SINU also reminds everyone of potential legal consequences for allegations posted on personal social media, which might be considered defamatory.

The University is committed to maintaining its integrity and reputation and urges the community to work collectively in this endeavor.

Peace Ark medical service in SI record breaking

Written by
Mavis Podokolo
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Ark Peace Chinese Hospital Ship

BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO

PEACE Ark Chinese navy hospital ship medical services recently provided in Solomon Islands was a record breaker for the ship’s history.

That is according to an official statement released by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Solomon Islands.

“The Ship’s medical service in Solomon Islands was another record breaking in its service history. Within seven days, a total number of 10, 310 people in Solomon Islands had received medical treatment from the floating hospital,” the PRC’s official statement said.

The statement stressed that in terms of surgical operations 31 surgical operations were administered on-board the ship and 13 field medical teams were dispatched to communities.

Ambassador to the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Solomon Islands Ming Li upon the arrival of the Chinese hospital ship on the 19th of August said, for this visit they have brought first-class expert teams.

“The 126 medical personnel who are to attend to the local patients are not only established and experienced clinical experts, but also professors from China’s Naval Medical University. Some of our clinical departments are top-ranking in China, such as traditional Chinese medicine, gynecology and obstetrics and endocrinology.

“The visit of Ark Peace is an epitome of the friendship between China and Solomon islands. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries, the bilateral relation has made strides forward, standing at the forefront of China’s relations with pacific island countries and has been upgraded to comprehensive strategic partnership featuring mutual respect and common development for a new era,” Li said.

Deputy Prime Minister Manasseh Maelanga on the same event echoed that whilst embracing the arrival of the service and services it provides, he is thankful for leaders, government officials and ordinary citizens for the equal opportunity to do medical check-ups and surgery on board.

“We acknowledge the shared commitment of our nations to upholding peace, stability, and mutual understanding. The ship is a testament to the power of international partnerships in addressing humanitarian crises, promoting public health, and fostering cultural exchange,” Maelanga said.

300 NURSES WANTED

Written by
Mavis Podokolo
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Director acting for External Trade under Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Barret Saloto .

High demand to fill aged-care jobs in Australia

BY MAVIS PODOKOLO

Government is calling for nurses to fill up around 300 jobs available in aged-care services in Australia.
This opportunity is also open to the 158 nurses who were commissioned last week.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) says the 300 nurses will join the labour mobility scheme under this particular service.
Commissioner for Trade MFAET Barret Saloto said:
“We are looking at recruiting 300 nurses to deliver age-care services.
“We already have selected 75 nurses and now we are looking to including another 25.
“But on our list we want 300 onboard,” Saloto said.
He said with the newly graduated 158 nurses not all of them will secure jobs here in the country and so the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) “has the data on who are currently on the job and those who graduated from their training and not in the formal job”.
“Thus, they [MHMS] gave us the list of 300 nurses that are available to join the labour mobility scheme and so they will go through the same process like everyone else went through for instance these selected Nurses must go through this training.
“We will ensure that health are health workers and the services that they deliver to our people in the country is maintained and so we have been working (MFAET) closely with MHMS to ensure proper recruitment process happened.
“The concern for our health workers would be having no nurses left behind to provide health services back in the country.
“But I don’t think it will become a big issue because it will be addressed by the responsible authorities,” he said.

Trial against 2 cops adjourned

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

Trial against two police officers has adjourned.

The presiding magistrate moved the matter to allow court to complete another part-heard trial this week.

Case against officers, Lawrence Moli and John Tautai, was thus adjourned for September 11 with Prosecution to call its last two witnesses for that date.

Bail was extended for Mr Moli and Mr Tautai.

Prosecution told court that Moli and Tautai are charged with one count of assault causing bodily harm.

The two men allegedly assaulted a 17-year-old boy at the Central Police Station, Watch House on Christmas eve of 2020.

The complainant had been brought to the police station by his father, who was a police officer himself, because the complainant was drunk and caused nuisance.

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

Warrant out for man accused of domestic violence

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

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

The warrant was issued after the man failed to turn up in court for his hearing yesterday.

This is the case against Selwyn Ramoni.

Court adjourned for September 4 for the defendant to plead to the charges against him.

Police alleged on June 18, 2023 about 8pm in the evening the complainant arrived back home after work and defendant got angry at her for arriving back late.

Mr Ramoni allegedly grabbed an axe and a bush knife and threatened to kill the complainant but someone came and took the axe and knife away from him.

Allegations said he then punched the complainant’s head, and grabbed at her hair causing pain.

The defendant then took the complainant’s bag and removed $300 cash.

Police Prosecution appears for the Crown, Public Solicitor Office appear for the Defence.

Lack of land access, investment pose barriers to tourism here: Jakosa

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0
MCC Director, Charles Jakosa (left) and Permanent Secretary for National Planning and Development Coordination, Susan Sulu Dhari (right).

BY INDY MAEALASIA

Ongoing limited land access and lack of investment in tourism facilities remain major barriers to the country’s tourism sector.

The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC)- Solomon Islands Threshold Program (SITP) Resident Director, Charles Jakosa highlighted this during a press conference yesterday at the United States Conference room at Heritage Park Hotel

Beside praising the country’s attractive landscape and people’s hospitality, Mr Jakosa said limited access to land remains one of the stumbling blocks for tourism investors.

“We all know that land in Solomon Islands is highly contested with lots of questions about who owns land, who has access to land, who has the ability to control land so as an investor, people are reluctant to utilize their money and develop land because you know today you might have a right but next year maybe somebody says you don’t and then you lose your investment,” Jakosa said.

With lack of tourism facilities, Jakosa explained how vital these facilities are for visitors and gave an example on how necessary services like cash machine, tourism information and SIM card should be provided at the airports.

Identifying these stumbling blocks, Jakosa said they aim to solve these issues by working closely with the government and other partners through their Accessing Land for Tourism Investment Facilitation Project (ALTIF).

According to MCC, this project in turn aims to help increase job opportunities, achieve foreign exchange benefits, increase productivity and purchase of local goods.

MCC is now going to work closely with few local communities in the Western, Central and Guadalcanal provinces to develop land for tourism activities. 

Villagers in Viru Harbour embrace carbon credit education under MCC-funded project

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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MPDC Permanent Secretary Ms. Susan Sulu delivered her remarks at the launching.

By EDDIE OSIFELO

In an endeavour aimed at both environmental conservation and sustainable economic growth, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) has collaborated with the Solomon Islands government to introduce the concept of ‘carbon credit’ to the residents of Viru Harbour in the Western Province.

Viru Harbour holds the distinction of being the inaugural recipient of Threshold Program support within the larger Forest Value Enhancement Project (FoVEP).

The overarching Forest Value Enhancement Project (FoVEP) is strategically designed to amplify the reliability and sustainability of benefits derived from the Solomon Islands’ national forest resources.

In addition to addressing the challenges of climate change, the project seeks to enhance economic opportunities while safeguarding the invaluable forests for future generations.

At its core, FoVEP is driving a shift toward more sustainable and economically viable forest practices, thereby creating non-logging income streams for local communities.

An integral aspect of this endeavor is the exploration of carbon credit opportunities.

Communities that meet the viability criteria, including the presence of substantial forest carbon stocks, are considered eligible for carbon projects.

Susan Sulu, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination, highlighted the essence of the project during a yesterday’s media briefing.

She explained that the concept involves a ‘payment for ecosystem services,’ wherein compensation is extended for preserving untouched ecosystems.

“For instance, forests play a pivotal role in acting as carbon sinks by absorbing carbon dioxide.

“Carbon credits are accrued by leaving trees standing, allowing them to continue their role as carbon sinks rather than being felled, which would disrupt their ecosystem value,” she added.

Furthermore, the project under FoVEP seeks to foster partnerships with local communities and explore alternative livelihoods that deviate from extractive logging practices, which contribute to deforestation.

MCC Resident Threshold Director, Charles Jakosa, elaborated on the concept of carbon credits, likening it to the value of a tree when left untouched.

He emphasised that while trees possess timber value, the process of harvesting and utilising them incurs expenses.

“Carbon credits, however, account for the value of the tree’s carbon storage capacity, particularly pertinent in the context of global climate change and the urgent need to curtail carbon emissions,” he said.

Jakosa noted that companies, including airlines, are increasingly interested in carbon offsets.

“Airlines, notorious carbon emitters due to their high-altitude emissions, are actively seeking carbon neutrality.

“By investing in carbon offset projects like forest preservation, these companies compensate for their carbon emissions, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable planet,” he added.

The FoVEP Project’s collaboration with Viru Harbour landowners has yielded approval for the Preservation of Ecosystem Services (PES) project spanning over 700 hectares of registered land.

This initiative will not only shield the area from logging but also ensure a continuous and sustainable source of income through the region’s substantial carbon stocks.

Viru Harbour, susceptible to the impact of climate change, including rising sea levels, is home to the last remaining lowland forest in the Western Province.

The project’s implementation is facilitated by the Nakau Programme, Live & Learn Environmental Education, and the Natural Resource Development Foundation.

These organisations are steadfastly supporting Viru Harbour landowners as they transition toward forest preservation and carbon capture, thereby forging a new path toward sustainable livelihoods beyond traditional logging practices.

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