[Published on Monday, March 23, 2026]
BY SAMIE WAIKORI
Premier of Temotu province, Stanley Tehiahua, has denied allegations that he accepted bribes related to logging operations in the province.
The clarification follows claims recently circulated on social media, alleging that he accepted bribes from logging companies and a Vietnamese company to allow logging activities in Temotu.
Speaking during an assembly meeting on 18 March 2026, the Premier addressed the full assembly and firmly rejected the claims, distancing himself from the allegations.
“Allow me to take this opportunity to address an issue that has been circulating on social media regarding allegations that I personally accepted bribes from logging companies and a Vietnamese company to allow logging operations in Temotu province.
“I wish to state clearly and firmly before this honourable assembly and the people of Temotu province that I totally deny these false and speculative allegations,” he said.
Premier Tehiahua supported his statement by highlighting actions taken by his government to demand outstanding dues from logging operators, which he said demonstrate his commitment to accountability and transparency.
He also outlined steps taken to investigate illegal logging activities in the province, despite facing administrative challenges.
“In pursuing investigations into the illegal operations of logging companies on Santa Cruz and Vanikoro Islands, my office encountered a serious administrative challenge.
“The two official files relating to these logging companies were removed from our registry, making it difficult for my office to access important reference documents required for further investigation,” he said.
In light of the situation, the premier formally requested the responsible provincial office to assist in compiling, organizing, and preparing a summary report on the alleged illegal activities of Xiang Lin Timber SI Ltd.
He said the report will be crucial in assisting the Temotu provincial government in preparing documentation to lodge a criminal case against the company.
“I also wish to clarify that all expenses incurred to carry out this work are personally met by me and not by the Temotu provincial government,” he added.
The premier further highlighted concerns over outstanding revenue owed by logging companies operating in the province, particularly on the Santa Cruz Islands.
“These revenues are critical for the province to deliver services effectively. It must be emphasized that logging companies must comply with all provincial revenue obligations, and outstanding dues must be pursued and recovered.
“This also applies to mining prospecting license fees that require proper collection,” Premier Tehiahua said.
He reaffirmed his strong support for government efforts to enforce payment of these outstanding dues, noting that this would significantly improve the province’s financial position and reduce reliance on external funding.
Photo: Supplied
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