GG calls on new government to fast-track critical reforms
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Governor-General Sir David Tiva Kapu calls on the new government coalition to urgently prioritise legislation and policies that will have an immediate impact on the lives of Solomon Islanders.
He made the statement at the 77th Official Birthday of His Majesty King Charles III event at the National Stadium yesterday.
Sir Kapu said the government cannot afford delays, political divisions, or “business as usual” if it hopes to deliver meaningful reforms within its remaining two-year term.
“We cannot afford the luxury of division. We cannot afford the delay of politicisation,” Sir David said.
He urged the new government to focus on policies that directly address the needs of citizens and to ensure transparency, efficiency and accountability in government.
He highlighted several key pieces of legislation awaiting passage, including the Indigenous Rights Amendment Bill and the Mining and Resources Bill, saying these and other pending laws are crucial to national development and public welfare.
He noted that challenges facing the country including public health, water and sanitation, healthcare, infrastructure development and social welfare remain among the daily struggles of Solomon Islanders and require urgent attention.
Sir Kapu acknowledged that structural reforms take time, noting that legislative processes, procurement procedures and implementation of government programmes are often lengthy and complex.
He added that the country is also operating in a difficult global economic environment, making development efforts even more challenging.
“To build infrastructure, reform our public service, strengthen our education system and secure our economic future requires more than cash and legislation. It requires time,” he said.
Sir Kapu challenged Members of Parliament to rise above partisan interests and work together for the national good.
“The health and safety of our Solomon Islands are not political issues. They are national imperatives,” he said.
He calls on both the Executive and Legislature to work in partnership to clear the backlog of legislation that directly affects the wellbeing of citizens.
Sir David also appeals to development partners, churches, civil society organisations and the private sector to support the government’s agenda through investment, expertise and cooperation.
He expressed confidence that despite the challenges ahead, the country can achieve significant progress through unity and collective effort.
Photo credit: John Houanihau
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