BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE Western Provincial Government (WPG) has strongly refuted allegations that provincial leaders have interfered in the allocation of the TC Land in Gizo, stating that no allocation has yet been made and that the process remains open and transparent.
In a statement issued in response to public concerns circulating yesterday, WPG clarified that the Lands Division is yet to advertise the TC Land for public tender.
WPG said all interested applicants will be given the opportunity to apply once the tender process is formally announced.
“With the current TC Land, the Lands Division has yet to advertise for public tender; therefore, no allocation has been made as yet. All interested applicants are hereby encouraged to apply,” the statement said.
WPG stressed that all applications will undergo the normal tendering process approved by the provincial government.
The statement further explained that the Provincial Land Advisory Board is responsible for making final recommendations and approvals regarding land applications, while the Provincial Executive only endorses submissions made by the Board.
The clarification comes amid concerns raised by members of the public questioning whether provincial leaders who already own land and properties in Gizo, Noro, Honiara and elsewhere should be considered for additional public land while many ordinary citizens remain without access.
Critics have argued that efforts to reclaim greater control over provincial lands from the Commissioner of Lands were intended to benefit the people of Western Province rather than a select group of office holders.
The concerns also called for greater transparency in the proposed allocation process, including disclosure of whether Executive members have declared conflicts of interest and whether all land allocations will be subjected to a fair and competitive process.
Public statements have emphasised that provincial leaders serve as custodians of public assets and are entrusted to manage resources for the benefit of all citizens rather than for personal gain.
The concerns highlighted the challenges faced by many residents across Western Province, including young families seeking land to build homes, small business owners looking to expand their enterprises, and public servants waiting for access to land after years of service.
Responding to these concerns, WPG reiterated its commitment to accountability and transparency in land administration and assured the public that the established procedures governing land allocation will be strictly followed.
The provincial government encourages all interested individuals to participate in the forthcoming tender process once it is officially announced, emphasising that the allocation of TC Land will be conducted in accordance with the law and existing provincial procedures.
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