BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Premier of Temotu Province, Stanley Tehiahua strongly denies allegations saying that he received more than $285,000 in bribes from logging companies, describing the claims as false, misleading and politically motivated.
He calls for an independent and lawful investigation into the matter.
The allegations circulating publicly claim that Premier Tehiahua received over $200,000 from Hoang Kim Vietnam Group, $35,000 from Target Logging through Ray Bilve Store, and a further $50,000 from Target Logging in relation to logging operations in the province.
Responding to the claims, he denies receiving $200,000 from Hoang Kim Vietnam Group. It has been speculated that the alleged payment was linked to awareness programmes conducted in January in Vaeakau and Fenualoa Wards.
“I categorically deny receiving such funds. The Temotu Provincial Government financed the awareness activities in accordance with existing agreements between the company and the province,” he said.
He said while the company’s local consultant submitted a proposed budget of over $100,000, the company rejected financing that proposal.
He believes the proposed budget document may have been circulated to political opponents, fuelling speculation.
“At no time did I receive $200,000 or any similar amount from this company,” he said.
Regarding the alleged $35,000 payment through Ray Bilve Store, Mr Tehiahua confirmed receiving phone calls from Akom, manager of Target Logging, offering $20,000 in exchange for releasing detained vessels and machinery at Luesalo.
“I did not accept this offer. I did not give in to any bribery attempt,” he said.
He also denies allegations, including claims made in circulated audio clips, that he received $50,000 during discussions concerning Target Logging’s operations in Taipe and Nelua.
According to Tehiahua, the issue involving Target Logging arose after his office received a court order under the Environmental Act to stop operations pending determination of a case involving alleged illegal entry onto customary land.
He said his office later confirmed that Target Logging was operating under the licence of Xiang Lin Timber (SI) Ltd, Forestry Licence A101549.
He required the company to regularise its position and pay appropriate provincial licence fees and penalties.
“When I issued a letter as requested, Akom later asked me to list Target Logging as the licence holder instead of Xiang Lin. I refused because doing so would bypass legal requirements under the Forestry Act,” he said.
Tehiahua said that to date, $100,000 in licence fees has been paid, while $20,000 remains outstanding.
He added that $450,000 in contractor licence fees also remains unpaid.
“To ensure transparency and public confidence, I formally call for an independent and lawful investigation into these allegations. Let the evidence be examined. Let truth prevail. I have nothing to hide,” he said.
He said that his actions are documented in official correspondence and financial records and reiterated that he continues to pursue full compliance from logging operators in the province.
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