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Political impasse case returns Saturday

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The High Court will resume on Saturday (April 4) at 10am over the case between the majority opposition coalition and government.

Court has not yet heard the main matter of public interest – which is the legal challenge by the opposition coalition that the Prime Minister has failed to advise the Governor General to call parliament while government is ruling with a minority.

Court however is first settling minor issues with the case.

On Saturday Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer is expected to deliver his ruling on the ‘application for cost’ filed by the respondents and the ‘Joinder application’.

These two applications were deliberated by parties at the High Court today (April 2).

Application for security cost was filed today by the Attorney General’s (AG) legal team. It was accompanied with three supporting sworn statements as deposed by the Prime Minister, the Speaker of Parliament and Secretary for the Governor General.

It seeks a security cost of $30,000 – to be imposed on each claimant (nine in total).

The AG said the claimants’ judicial review (JR) claim lacks legal standing thus weak and speculative in nature, therefore should be struck out.

Claimants questioned how the AG came up with $30,000 figure, suggesting a security for cost much lower than that figure as more accurate and appropriate.

Claimants are of the view that their claim is constitutional in nature and not political as claimed by the AG. It seeks court’s determination on the express and implied powers of the GG to convene parliament.

The second application was the Joinder application. This was filed by the lawyer for Kadere Party, Barnabus Upwe.

Claimants’ lawyers questioned the legal basis for this application. They were of the view that it should be dismissed with cost on indemnity basis as it was an abuse of process.

Chief Justice Palmer will make a ruling and determination on the outcome of these two applications when the matter came for ruling on Saturday, April 4, at the High Court Courtroom 1.

Directions for the matter of public interest – which is the PM allegedly failing to advise the GG to call parliament – could be made known on Saturday following ruling on the above matters.

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SET TO SHINE

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6 locals among Hyper Pacific Allstars preparing in New Zealand ahead of Heritage hockey tournament

BY TONY IROGA

The Hyper Pacific Allstars team are on session training in New Zealand ahead of the Heritage Hockey tournament which kicks off tomorrow, Friday and ends on Monday April 6 in Auckland, New Zealand.

The six locals named in Pacific Allstars are; Nyrick Zuna of Dolphin Hockey Club, Ricky Fairamoa of Renegades Hockey Club, Jackson Ramo of Renegades Hockey Club, Enock Mae of White Kovara Hockey Club, Melwyn Makana of Penguins Hockey Club Australia base player and Australia based player, Junaina Mahika of Penguins Hockey Club.

According to Hype Pacific Allstars player, Mr Nyrick Zuna they have been training well and will continue with their last training today.

He said he has been playing hockey for almost three years, and used to play Hockey five in Solomon Islands which started way back in 2015.

“It is my first time to play Hockey in an international tournament here in New Zealand,” he said.

He said he was feeling proud, and it’s great for them to be selected as best of the Pacific Allstars to team up and play together as one team to compete in the Heritage Hockey Tournament.

“The weather condition here is different from the Solomon Islands, usually the weather in Solomon Islands is hot, but here it’s a little bit cold,” he said.

He said he was happy to meetup with his teammates during their first training session and got to know how each of them plays.

He added that the environment in New Zealand is comfortable and the sports facilities are very good for boosting up trainings.

The Hype Pacific Allstars team will open their first game against New Zealand Indians tomorrow Friday at 11am in Tiger Turf 2 Auckland, New Zealand.

In their second match, they are set to meet rival Fijian Heritage on Saturday 4th at 12 pm at Cello 1 turf 1 in Auckland, New Zealand.

The third game will be a fantastic determination game as Hype Pacific Allstars will meet Panjab Heritage on Sunday 5 at 12p m at Cello 1 turf 1 in Auckland, New Zealand.

The fourth match on Monday 6th April at 10Am will be a playoff matches for the 3rd and 4th spots and followed by the grand- final match at 2 pm at Cello 1 of turf 1.

He calls on all families, fans and supporters back home to rally support behind the team as they prepare for their first game tomorrow against New Zealand Indians.

“They are starting to adapt to the weather conditions and, more importantly, building strong understanding and connection with each other as a team,” he said.

He mentioned that with each session, the confidence and chemistry continue to grow, and the boys are showing real commitment and focus as they prepare for tomorrow’s game.

“We’re now looking forward to another solid training today as we keep pushing towards our best performance,” he said.

The team also thanks Mr Brett Leaver, Scott, and Paul Frazer for their guidance and support in helping develop and prepare them for their matches.

The tournament will bring together teams from across the Pacific and beyond, celebrating culture, identity and the spirit of hockey.

Solomon Islands Hockey Federation (SIHF) acknowledges Brett Leaver, an Olympian and founder of NZ Heritage Hockey, for creating the opportunity for Pacific athletes.

Photo: Supplied

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Ambassador meets Solomon Islands team during FIFA series in Indonesia

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Solomon Islands Ambassador to Indonesia, Gladys Isihanua, met the national men’s football team during their participation in the 2026 FIFA Series in Indonesia, offering encouragement and support as they represented the country on the international stage.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET), Ambassador Isihanua met with the squad while they were in Indonesia and acknowledged their role in representing Solomon Islands abroad.

“The Solomon Islands Ambassador to the Republic of Indonesia, Her Excellency Gladys Isihanua, has met with the Solomon Islands senior men’s national football team currently competing in the 2026 FIFA Series in Indonesia,” the statement said.

The statement said during the meeting the ambassador conveyed her encouragement and support to the team and extended assistance to boost their preparations and morale.

The Solomon Islands side played two matches in the series, including their final fixture against the Saint Kitts and Nevis national football team earlier this week in Indonesia. The match followed their opening game against the Bulgaria national football team as part of the international friendly tournament.

Members of the Solomon Islands community living and studying in Indonesia were also present to show their support and to witness the match.

The ministry noted that the FIFA Series provides valuable international exposure for teams, allowing them to compete against sides from different football confederations while strengthening preparations for future competitions.

The series, organised by FIFA, aims to give national teams more opportunities to play international friendlies during official match windows.

For Solomon Islands, the tournament provided an important opportunity for the national side to gain experience against international opposition as they continue preparations for future regional and international competitions.

Photo: Supplied

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Call for effective budget implementation

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Premier of Temotu province, Stanley Tehiahua calls for effective implementation of the SBD $19,723,102.56 budget passed by the provincial assembly last week.

Speaking in support of the budget during its bill stage, premier Tehiahua stressed that the success of the budget should not be measured by its presentation, but by its implementation.

He highlighted key priorities for achieving this:

  • Timely release of funds to line ministries and provinces
  • Strong financial management and accountability
  • Effective monitoring and evaluation of projects
  • Ensuring rural and remote areas receive their fair share of development

“For provinces like Temotu, delays in implementation often translate into delayed services for the people, which we must avoid,” he said.

On alignment with national development, premier Tehiahua noted that the provincial budget supports broader national goals, particularly in promoting rural development, strengthening economic sectors, and improving service delivery.

However, he emphasised that realizing these goals will require strong coordination between national and provincial governments, commitment from all stakeholders, and responsible leadership at every level.

Despite the challenges, the premier expressed confidence that the budget provides a solid foundation to advance the country’s development.

“It is now our collective responsibility to ensure that the resources allocated are used efficiently, transparently, and for the benefit of all Solomon Islanders,” he said.

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Unstable weather forecasted across Solomon Islands this week

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) has predicted unstable weather conditions across the country as of Monday this week to Sunday, April 5th.

Its weekly weather outlook issued on Sunday 29th, indicate that showers and isolated thunderstorms, and rough seas are expected to affect most provinces, with heavier rainfall likely later in the week.

Solomon Islands Meteorological Service said that a trough lies over the eastern Solomon Islands, while a low-pressure system may be near Temotu Province.

These conditions are expected to bring scattered showers and thunderstorms throughout the week according to SIMS Outlook.

Monday this week saw generally fine weather apart from isolated showers and thunderstorms, with slight to moderate seas. 

The weekly outlook indicated that from Tuesday through Thursday, showers and thunderstorms will become more widespread, with winds strengthening to 20–25 knots over waters near Temotu, Renbel, and Makira provinces.

The SIMS said seas are forecasted to be moderate to rough, accompanied by low to moderate southerly swells. 

On the weekend, Friday through Sunday, rainfall is expected to increase, with heavy showers possible in several provinces.

The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service also issued Strong Wind Warning Number Five at 4:00 p.m. yesterday.

The SIMS said a tropical low currently lies over the southeastern parts of the Solomon Islands, bringing unstable weather conditions.

It adds that north-easterly to north-westerly winds are expected to reach speeds of 20 to 25 knots across all waters.

The SIMS said that seas are forecasted to be moderate to rough, with southeasterly swells reaching up to 2.5 meters. 

The SIMS also warn of poor visibility in areas affected by heavy rain and thunderstorms.

Communities are urged to take precautionary measures, as strong winds may pose risks to lives and property and sea travellers, particularly those in small boats, are advised to avoid unnecessary journeys due to dangerous wave conditions. 

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Road and water supply projects for Gizo

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

THE Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project Phase Two (SIRAP2) has been given the green light to upgrade roads in Gizo, marking a major step forward in improving another road infrastructure in Western Province.

Premier Billy Veo confirmed the development in an exclusive interview with Island Sun yesterday.

He said consultations are currently underway between the Western Provincial Government and SIRAP2 officials.

Veo said the project is expected to upgrade more than 20 kilometres of road within Gizo town, with priority to be given to the seaside road stretching from the eastern to the western end of the town.

“Priority will be given to the seaside road from east to western end of the town,” he said.

In addition to road improvements, Veo announced that plans are also in motion to address Gizo’s long-standing water supply challenges.

He said Gizo has been identified as one of the key development areas under the government’s 50th Anniversary development plan, with a focus on establishing a reliable and sustainable water system.

“We are looking at utilising this proposal to develop proper water supply for Gizo town,” Veo said.

He said drilling for boreholes is expected to commence later this month to identify suitable water sources. The plan involves pumping water into storage tanks before distributing it across the town.

Veo said access to clean and reliable water remains a persistent issue for Gizo residents and stressed that his government is working closely with Solomon Water to accelerate progress.

“Our people have faced this challenge for a long time, and we are putting pressure on Solomon Water to fast-track this development,” he added.

The dual projects are expected to significantly enhance living conditions and support economic growth in Gizo, one of the country’s key provincial centres.

Photo credit: Ben Bilua

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Upton commends Uriaupo community for successful hall project

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

THE First Secretary (Political) of the Australian High Commission to Solomon Islands, Mr Luke Upton, has commended the people of Uriaupo for the successful completion of their Community Hall Project.

Speaking during the official handing over ceremony at Uriaupo in Vella La Vella, Western Province, Upton said the new facility stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and a shared commitment to building a safer and more sustainable future.

He described the project as a concrete example of the strong and enduring partnership between Solomon Islands and Australia.

Upton said Australia continues to support approaches that empower communities to take ownership of their own development.

“This is exactly what we see here today at Uriaupo community.

“Today, we are not only celebrating the opening of a community hall, but also a stronger future where we build together under the Solomon Islands–Australia Partnership,” he said.

Upton acknowledged the efforts of the project coordinator and all those involved in bringing the project to fruition, describing the outcome as a great success.

He also recognised the support from the Western Provincial Government, as well as the chiefs, women, youth and children of Uriaupo community for their collective contribution.

Upton said the new community hall will serve as an important resource for Uriaupo and surrounding communities, supporting a range of activities and development initiatives in the years ahead.

“On behalf of the Australian High Commission, I want to express sincere congratulations to everyone involved in making sure this project came to life,” he said.

Photo credit: Ben Bilua

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Australia hands over Community Hall to Uriaupo community

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

COMMUNITY leaders, stakeholders, women and youths gathered in large numbers at Uriaupo village on Monday to witness the official handover of a newly completed community hall.

The project was funded by the Government of Australia through its Community Partnership Program, marking another milestone in supporting rural development initiatives in Western Province.

Speaking during the ceremony, Ward 8 Provincial Member Kadiba Alu expressed his appreciation to the Australian Government for its continued support towards community-driven projects.

“Your continued support reflects a strong and enduring partnership that will contribute meaningfully to the development aspirations of my people of Ward 8, specifically here at Uriaupo,” he said.

Alu said the new community hall represents more than just a physical structure.

“This is a place where people will come together to share, learn, and grow. It will create opportunities for enrichment and development for everyone in the community,” he said.

Alu also acknowledged the efforts of the project committee, contractors, and individuals who contributed to the successful completion of the facility.

He reaffirmed the Western Provincial Government’s commitment to supporting community-led developments in partnership with donors.

“We will continue to work closely with our donor partners and communities when it comes to developments that benefit our people,” Alu said.

He calls on the people of Uriaupo to take ownership of the facility and ensure its proper maintenance for future generations.

Project Coordinator Gaylin Marly Matiuru said the handover symbolises a journey built on unity, sacrifice, and strong partnerships between the community and its supporters.

“This project was born out of a real need within our community. For many years, we lacked a proper space to meet, plan, celebrate, and address issues affecting our daily lives,” she said.

Matiuru explained that community gatherings were often held in unsuitable venues or open spaces, limiting effective coordination and development efforts.

She said the new hall will play a vital role in strengthening community governance and decision-making processes.

“It will also serve as a venue for training, meetings, and social events, while supporting women and youth initiatives,” Matiuru said.

She said the benefits will be felt across the entire community and beyond.

“It will improve communication, support skills development, and strengthen social connections.

“It will especially support our women and youth by giving them a space to organize and actively participate in development activities,” Matiuru said.

She also conveyed heartfelt gratitude to the Government and people of Australia for their generous support.

“You have given rural communities like Uriaupo the opportunity to turn our dreams into reality. What may seem like a simple project becomes, for us, a life-changing milestone—bringing hope, unity, and a stronger future for our people,” Matiuru said.

The newly opened facility is expected to serve as a central hub for community activities and development initiatives in Uriaupo for years to come.

Photo credit: Ben Bilua

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Australia invests SBD63 million in community development projects

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

AUSTRALIA has invested more than SBD63 million in community development initiatives across the Solomon Islands, reinforcing its commitment to grassroots development and local partnerships.

First Secretary (Political) at the Australian High Commission, Luke Upton, announced the investment earlier this week during the official handover of the Uriaupo Community Hall in Western Province.

He said the funding has been distributed equally across the country’s nine provinces, directly supporting local businesses and community-driven development initiatives.

“This SBD63 million represents direct investment into local communities and businesses, ensuring that development is both inclusive and sustainable,” Upton said.

He said Australia remains committed to working alongside Solomon Islands communities to deliver tangible improvements in people’s daily lives.

Upton said the Uriaupo Community Hall Project is a clear example of the strong partnership between Australia and local communities that will create meaningful and lasting impacts.

“The completion of the community hall demonstrates what can be achieved when we work together to address community needs,” he said.

The Solomon Islands–Australia Community Partnerships Program is designed to support small-scale infrastructure projects that improve living standards.

These projects are typically completed within a year and focus on delivering practical and high-impact outcomes.

The programme prioritises support for disadvantaged groups, including women, youths, people with disabilities, and those living in remote communities.

Funded projects include; construction of multipurpose community halls, water supply and sanitation facilities, school buildings such as classrooms and libraries, upgrades to health clinics, and staff housing for teachers and health workers.

Other supported initiatives include footpaths, solar-powered street lighting, fencing for community infrastructure, and cultural or sporting facilities.

Australia’s continued investment underscores its long-standing partnership with the Solomon Islands, with the aim to foster sustainable development and improve the quality of life for communities nationwide.

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Temotu passes $19 million budget

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Temotu provincial assembly last week passed a budget of $19,723,102.56 during its provincial full assembly meeting.

The overall budget comprises a recurrent budget of $6,868,704.02 and a capital development budget of $12,723,102.55.

Minister for Finance and Treasury, Michael Mapolu, outlined the key objectives of the budget as follow;

  • Strengthening governance structures and sector performance, ensuring improved and high-quality provincial service delivery
  • Sustaining food security, boosting local production, and expanding commercial opportunities within the province
  • Increasing access to essential services such as health and education for local communities
  • Enhancing infrastructure to support economic growth and create job opportunities
  • Maintaining peace, harmony, and social order across all communities
  • Promoting sustainable use of environmental resources to support long-term development in Temotu

Minister Mapolu emphasised that the budget’s primary objective is to achieve a 90 percent output rate by the end of the fiscal year.

He said the budget will also provide resources to implement planned activities and development projects, including those carried forward from the previous financial year.

Mapolu acknowledged that projected revenues, particularly from local sources, may not always fully materialise, which could impact the financing of all planned activities.

“The vision of the provincial government is to ensure that public goods and services are visible and accessible to our villages, regardless of geographical challenges.

“This will be achieved through strict management of our limited financial resources,” Mapolu said.

He further stated that the current government aims to enhance the province’s public image by achieving an outstanding audit report during its tenure.

To accomplish this, the Tehiahua-led government will:

  • Implement and support the Provincial Revenue Mobilisation Strategy
  • Introduce a cash flow management strategy
  • Enforce strict adherence to procurement and contract administration procedures
  • Apply austerity and prudential financial measures, ensuring divisions control expenditures and reduce consumption costs.

Minister Mapolu expressed confidence that, with the cooperation of the provincial assembly and the people of Temotu, the objectives of the 2026 budget will be successfully achieved.

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