MP Gordon Darcy Lilo declares Central Honiara constituency a drug-free zone, warns of harsh measures
BY NED GAGAHE
MEMBER of Parliament for Central Honiara, Gordon Darcy Lilo, has declared the constituency a drug-free constituency, warning that the growing drug problem in Honiara has reached a dangerous and critical level.
Speaking in Parliament during the Sine Die Motion yesterday, Lilo said strong and immediate action is needed to protect communities, especially young people, from the deepening drug crisis.
“The drug problem in our city has reached a very serious level. This must be a zero-tolerance approach,” Lilo told Parliament.
He said that posters declaring a zero-tolerance stance on drugs will soon be displayed throughout the Honiara boundary, reinforcing the message that drugs will not be tolerated in Central Honiara.
Lilo warned that individuals who host, distribute, or facilitate drugs, whether in homes, hotels, or other premises, will be pursued and prosecuted.
“Those involved will be dealt with using all legal avenues available,” he said, adding that he will work closely with the Ministry of Health and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force to strengthen enforcement and community awareness.
The Central Honiara MP appealed directly to Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele to support efforts to curb the drug crisis, noting that the problem is now deeply embedded in society and poses a serious threat to national stability.
Lilo also raised alarming reports linking drugs to illegal gold trading, calling on the Minister for Police to urgently investigate the matter.
“If we fail to control this situation, our youth will turn against society and the system itself.
“We must not allow that to happen,” he warned.
As Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, Lilo said the Committee has recommended increased funding for the Ministry of Youth and called for a possible mid-term or quarterly fiscal review in 2026 to provide additional resources for youth programmes.
He further proposed a national youth summit, bringing together young people, children, and key stakeholders to develop a coordinated national response. He said the approach must be multifaceted, involving education, health, policing, agriculture, and economic opportunities aimed at building youth capacity.
Lilo also welcomed government support for the proposed National Youth Centre, describing it as a crucial investment given the high concentration of youth in Honiara. The centre, he said, would focus on entrepreneurship, skills training, education, and meaningful youth engagement.
“I will engage with the Honiara City Council to identify space for this initiative,” he said, adding that the programme is about investing in young people as the citizens of tomorrow.
Lilo said his remarks reflect a forward-looking vision as the country prepares for 2026, expressing satisfaction with progress made in Central Honiara and reaffirming his commitment to continue serving his constituents.
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