BY LORETTA B MANELE
The Premier for Rennell and Bellona Province, Derek Pongi has been lauded for his leadership.
Prime Minister, Jeremiah Manele whilst speaking at the province’s 32nd Second Appointed Day celebration on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 applauded the leadership of the Pongi-led Alliance for Reform and Progress Government (ARPG).
“The Government applauds the leadership of the Alliance for Reform and Progress Government (ARPG) for embracing reform and ushering in a new era of institutional strengthening.
“The theme of this second appointed day commemoration of “Celebrating Reform and Progress in Rennel Bellona” also celebrates the leadership of the ARPG. Thank you and congratulations Hon. Premier,” said Manele.
The Prime Minister expressed that the Pongi-led provincial government’s successful qualification for the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF) in FY2022/2023, after years of falling short, speaks volumes about their determination to comply with financial and administrative standards and good governance.
Manele added that the Premier has also restored full staffing of his administration, improved access to digital connectivity, and ensured that Ward Development Committee (WDC) grants are now properly channelled, accounted for and most importantly deliver positive development outcomes.
“These are not small feats – it takes leadership, unwavering commitment to serve, instil accountability and drive community development that is locally determined and prioritised,” he stressed.
Manele noted that they also recognize the diplomatic initiative that led to the sister-province relationship with Hainan Province in China, supported by MPGIS (Ministry of Provincial Governance and Institutional Strengthening) and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China.
“This new partnership reflects how local governments can advance international cooperation under the guidance of our national foreign policy,” he said.
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