PARLIAMENT MEETS NEXT WEEK
SIBC News, 3rd September 2010 – The ninth Parliament will meet for the first time on Wednesday next week.
Solomon Star Newspaper reports the Prime Minister Danny Philip had advised Governor General Sir Frank Kabui yesterday that Wednesday 18th is the opening session.
Clerk to Parliament Taasi Sanga has confirmed that Speaker Sir Kenilorea has received the notice.
She says Sir Peter has also notified the Electoral Commission on the date.
Mrs Sanga however says the Prime Minister's Office has yet to submit the business of the meeting to the Parliament Office.
FORMER WEST HONIARA MP TO PETITION ELECTORAL COMMISSION
SIBC News, 3rd September 2010 – The former member of Parliament for West Honiara Isaac Inoke will lodge his petition against the electoral Commission next week.
Mr Inoke told SIBC news today he has already paid the necessary legal fees and what is left now is for his lawyer to compile all the relevant documents.
Mr Inoke more than a month ago lodged a case at the High Court claiming there was a 120 percent increase in registered voters in West Honiara Constituency.
He also sought the Court's definition on the term 'Ordinarily resident ' which was stated in the constitution on who should be qualified and disqualified from voting.
This subsequently resulted in a ruling by the High Court just a day before the national elections that people who are registered in a constituency for illegitimate and improper reasons are breaching the law and should not be voting in the election.
The ruling also made it clear that should it be likely that the numbers of illegal voters have affected the result of the election, it can be ground for a petition.
Mr Inoke made it clear straight after the ruling that should he lose the election he will file a petition against the electoral commission.
So far only one election petition has been lodged at the High Court; against the Member of Parliament for the Lau Baelelea constituency.
COURT ORDERS LENI OUT FROM PROPERTY IN HONIARA
SIBC News, 3rd September 2010 – The former member of Parliament for East Guadalcanal Nollen Leni has vacated a property at Lungga, in Honiara on Monday according to a notice issued by the High Court on Friday.
However, five people who were identified as his relatives were arrested Wednesday after they caused disturbances at the property.
Police Commissioner Peter Marshall told a press conference that the five men were arrested by the Police Response Team and charged with criminal trespass.
Commissioner Marshall said the five men were not happy with the High Court's order for Leni to vacate the property.
A three day notice was issued by the High Court to Mr Leni on Friday last week following a High Court refusal on an application by the former MP to stay the orders of the High Court that the property he had built his house on is owned by Levers Solomons Limited -LSL.
The High Court Sheriff confirmed to SIBC News that Mr Leni had moved out of the property on Monday and possession has passed on to Levers Solomon Limited.
SOLOMONS LOWERS CHILD MORTALITY
Radio Australia, 3rd September 2010 – Solomon Islands has been praised for its progress in some of the United Nations' Millenium Development Goals, including lower child mortality rates.
Countries signing up to the goals are trying to achieve them by a 2015 deadline.
They include reducing extreme poverty, decreasing child deaths and fighting disease epidemics such as AIDS.
Civil society leader and activist Dr John Roughan, a long-term resident of Solomon Islands, says the country is failing to meet key targets on education and the environment.
But he told Radio Australia's Pacific Beat the country has done well on other Millenium Development Goals, including reducing infant mortality.
"In the (United) States, and probably Australia, 12 (deaths) per 1,000 is considered pretty high," the doctor said.
"Ours, I think is 37 per 1,000. Well, only a few years ago it was in the 100s."
LOSSING CANDIDATE TO SUBMIT ELECTION PETITION
SIBC News, 2nd September 2010 – Spokesperson for Alfred Maeke and chief of North Guadacanal Constituency has confirmed that they will lodge a petition against their member of parliament, Martin Sopage.
Mr Maeke came second in the elections
Chief Eric Ata says the petition will be lodged with the High Court for bribery during the lead up to the 4th August election and corruption during the past four years when Mr Sopaghe in Parliament.
He says that the petition will be handed to the High Court either by the end of the week or early next week.
Mr Maeke says six losing candidates are supporting the petitions.
Martin Sopaghe is the Minister for Lands and Housing.
POLICE SAYS THERE IS NO NEED FOR ANOTHER INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION
SIBC News, 2nd September 2010 – The head of police says there is no need for another independent investigation into a recent shooting death of a former police officer at Titinge in Honiara.
Two Tonga soldiers have admitted opening fire resulting in the shooting death of former police officer Harry Lolonga after they were called, as part of of a larger RAMSI group, to deal with a brawl involving groups of people at Titinge last month.
The Attorney General Gabriel Suri has said that the Tongan authorities have declined his request to waiver immunity to their military personnel and that they will conduct their own investigation into the matter.
Mr Suri says the Tongan cabinet said that that their personnel were acting in self defence in a highly dangerous situation and that they have acted within the rules of engagement.
Meanwhile, a statement from a former police officer Frank Short yesterday has opted for an independent investigation into the matter apart from that currently conducted by the local police force and the Tongan authorities.
Mr Short says this is not to say that the Tongan authorities will not conduct their investigation properly but says an independent investigation might have been a good recourse.
However, Police Commissioner Peter Marshall says he is confident of the local police and the Tongan authorities's continuing the investigations.
"There is absolutely no need for any independent investigations at this stage. I will receive the file in the next few weeks. I will give it to the Director of the Public Prosecutions for his independent scrutiny. We don't need an overseas independent study of this particular matter. We have investigations of a serious nature all the time. I have sufficient confidence in the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and the Director of the Public Prosecutions to give us this vigorous scrutiny that we would want in any matter that is as serious as this."
TELECOMMUNICATION COMMISSION PLEASED WITH LAUNCH OF BE-MOBILE
SIBC News, 2nd September 2010 – Telecommunication Commissioner says the Commission is pleased with Be-mobile's launch and hopes that it will perform well in the telecommunication market.
Commissioner Nicholas William however says that they are currently looking into Be-mobile's requirement of 25 percent coverage of population stated under the licence.
While it is common in a Duopoly market structure for two firms supplying highly substituted goods and service to merge into a cartel or into one the Commissioner says that is his concern and will make sure to keep an eye on it.
"I am not expecting it, but I don't believe for one moment that I am not keeping an eye on it. That is the biggest concern that I have in this market. It's a valid point to query how competitive the market structure is even with the introduction of Be-mobile. So far we have seen very positive signs, very positive indeed. That doesn't mean it will last that is why we have a regulator to review such matter."
Mr Williams also says that if these two decide to share towers then it is up to them but that will not affect how they compete with each other.
He says as long as people are getting quality communication services at affordable prices then the commission will not interfere into the market.
Meanwhile, he said that the commission is not planning to regulate anything yet but is more focused on opening up the market and clearing any barriers for a third communication company to enter into the market
EU CONGRATULATES PM PHILIP
SIBC News, 2nd September 2010 – The European Union has congratulated Danny Philip for his appointment as Prime Minister of Solomon Islands.
On behalf of the EU Baroness Ashton wishes the new Government of Solomon Islands every success in fulfilling its democratic mandate.
He says the EU stands ready to pursue its enhanced political dialogue in support of, and in partnership with, the Solomon Islands.
The European Union commends the strong commitment of the Solomon Islands to reforms.
The European Union also commends the Solomon Islands' willingness to carry out an open and constructive policy dialogue that aims to improve the delivery of development to, and the quality of life of, ordinary Solomon Islanders.
It says Solomon Islands has been eligible for budget support from EU to help the country to the global economic crisis and to climate change while pursuing its peace and reconciliation efforts.
The EU says a budgetary support of 18 million Euro or more than 180 million Solomon Islands dollars is yet to be made to Solomon Islands based on the revised Cotonou Partnership Agreement.
The EU says it appreciates that the progress noted above was also made possible by the improved security conditions, law and order and governance in the country following the arrival of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands.
LEADERSHIP CODE COMMISSION SAYS HAS NO POWER OF SELECTION OF MINISTERS
SIBC News, 2nd September 2010 – Chairman of Leadership Code Commission says that the Commission has no say over how the Prime Minister allocate his members to various ministerial positions.
Chairman Emanuel Kouhota says it is the responsibility of the Prime Minister to appoint ministers and the Commission cannot over ride the decision.
However, Mr Kouhota says the Commission can give advice in cases where there is conflict of interest.
He says what appeared in Solomon Star front page, as if the commission is responding to the appointment of MP Bobo Detke as the new Forestry Minister is the paper's view not the Commission.
Mr Kouhota says that at this stage there are no declaration of interest by the members of Parliament and so the Commission cannot make any suggestion or advice to the government.
He says the conflict of interest rule is something to do with how the people see a leader whether the leader is doing his duty according to national interest or for personal interest.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of Leadership Code Commission says the Ministers have three months have to submit interest declaration so the Commission can asses them and advise the Prime Minister.
PM SAYS THERE IS NO RULES FOR REGULATING POLITICAL PARTIES
SIBC News, 2nd September 2010 – Prime Minister Danny Phillip says it is a difficult task being a leader of a coalition due to the absence of a regulatory prescriptive mechanism to regulate the functions of political parties in the country.
He says it will continue to remain as a very difficult task.
"It will remain to be become a very difficult exercise for me especially as the leader of the group. I have about six to eight political groupings in Cabinet and that will have to be a task taken on board every day and to make sure there is cohesion and there is that commitment to task, to the work of government in Solomon Islands."
Minister Phillip also said that he understands what is happening in Solomon Islands political party system and he will ensure that the government machinery is working.
Mr Philip says he is confident in leading the new government and will ensure goods and services are delivered to the people in the country.
PARLIAMENTARY OPPOSITION LINE – UP
SIBC News, 1st September 2010 – The Parliamentary Opposition says it has an impressive line-up of Shadow Ministers to take on the watch-dog role of the government.
Newly elected Leader of Opposition and Fataleka M-P Steve Abana has released a list of 23 Shadow Cabinet Ministers yesterday, with himself lined-up as the Shadow Prime Minister.
Speaking to SIBC News yesterday, Opposition Spokesperson, John Keniapisia says the Opposition has a good line-up of professional national leaders.
"The line-up of the various shadow ministries is an impressive because you can see integrity, you can capacity, you can see good track record, you can see qualification and the rest of it. So as the alternative government we want to be proactive, the proper watchdog, the effective in Parliament to make sure that government is accountable does its work as expected by the people of Solomon Islands."
On issues which the Opposition will be keeping close watch on in government, the Opposition spokesperson says, while the Opposition's common policy statement is yet to be released, corruption issues tops the agenda.
"Corruption is one important and high in any role that government plays because government spends and uses and manages resources of the country. Therefore we must ensure through anti-corruption efforts that government manages in a proper way that benefits the whole nation. What's due to the people must get to them."
A draft of the common policy statement is expected to be released before the first session of the current ninth parliament.
SOLMONS FISH AND PROCESSING COMPANY
SIBC News, 1st September 2010 – Changes to the ownership shares and financial structure of Solomon Taiyo Fish and Processing company or Soltai has now been implemented after two years of negotiation and disruption in the Taiyo production.
An agreement signed recently has confirmed that two new investors, Tri Marine and Solomon Islands Provident Fund, NPF, have paid in 100 million dollars as their share in Soltai.
Tri-marine has 51 percent shares of the100 million dollars while NPF has 29 percent.
The two previous owners, the Investment Corporation of Solomon Islands and the Western Provincial government are owners of the remaining 20 percent of Soltai.
According to a press release by the company board chairman a large part of the incoming funds will be used to settle Soltai's debt and the balance from these new funds will be towards financing the company's operations and fixed capital costs during its build up of production over the next 12 months.
TONGA'S PM SAYS NO NEED FOR SOLDIERS TO REMAIN IN SOLOMON ISLANDS
Radio New Zealand International, 31st August 2010 – Tonga’s Prime Minister says there was no need for his soldiers to remain in Solomon Islands to answer questions about the shooting death of a man in Honiara.
Two Tonga soldiers have admitted opening fire after they were called, as part of of a larger Ramsi group, to deal with a brawl involving dozens of local people.
The Solomon Island’s police are investigating and would have liked to speak to the soldiers concerned.
But Tonga’s Prime Minister, Feleti Sevele, says his Solicitor General and the Deputy Head of Defence were satisfied with the soldiers actions after visiting Honiara:
“Our boys were acting under the rules of engagement and there is an agreement between Solomon Islands and all of those participating under RAMSI and we just follow those.”
The police in Solomon Islands are continuing with their investigation and will present their final recommendations to the Director of Public Prosecutions.
SI POLICE SAY INQUIRY NOT HAMPERED BY TONGA'S NON-COOPERATION
Radio New Zealand International, 31st August 2010 –Tongan authorities say they will conduct their own investigations into the recent shooting death in Solomon Islands of a former police officer from Guadalcanal Province.
The man died from a bullet wound after two Tongan soldiers, who were part of a larger group of Regional Assistance Mission soldiers, and local and regional police, who attended brawl in the west of Honiara.
The Police Commissioner in Solomon Islands, Peter Marshall, says despite not being able to talk to the soldiers involved investigations into whether or not a crime was committed can continue:
“We certainly have enough information to go on and to continue investigating and we will take it as far as we can. We will summarise the investigation in due course, and that might take a number of weeks and we will present it to the director of public prosecutions for his assessment in terms of our recommendations.”
The Solomon’s Police Commissioner, Peter Marshall said that along with the police investigation in Solomons and any investigation in Tonga, RAMSI are still conducting their own internal review.
SOLOMON ISLANDS FISCAL POLICY
SIBC News, 1 September 2010 - Solomon Islands is likely to face a tight fiscal policy from the new government, meaning a reduction in government spending and increase in taxation.
According to the new finance minister, past governments have expansionary fiscal policies which encouraged more government spending and less taxation.
Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo says the expansionary fiscal policies have been derived from a situation when there is a boom in the forestry sector in past decades.
He says that with the current situation which he describes as a hand to mouth situation, Solomon Islands must be cautious in its spending and taxation.
Mr Lilo says he will ensure that government spending is only for activities that will generate more investment, employment and improve infrastructure, productivity and standard of living.
Meanwhile, Mr Lilo says if the ability of the country to raise taxes is not there, other options must be consulted.
He says that which ever fiscal policy the government makes it must match the various potential sectors in our country and that the country must spend within its limit.
LILO SAYS TAXATION A PRIORITY FOR NEW GOVERNMENT
SIBC News, 1st September 2010 – The country's new Finance Minister, Gordon Darcy Lilo says taxation issues will top the list of priorities for the Ministry this term.
Speaking to SIBC News after his swearing in as Minister, Gordon Darcy Lilo says direct and indirect taxation is the government's primary revenue.
"We now have to move out of service fees or licence fees to more on tax that are computed on the values of resources owned and produced out of Solomon Islands so that we see the real values of those resources invested back in Solomon Islands. And also brought in or earned for the interest of our country."
Meanwhile, critics have said the new government is going in with a budget less than the usual amount previous governments have entered office with.
Responding to this, the new Finance Minister says he will have to consult officials and check the books before making a statement on the issue.
He however says the most important thing as Finance Minister is to first see the status of the country's spending and revenue.
BE-MOBILE OVERWHELMED BY RESPONSE TO SERVICE
SIBC News, 1 September 2010 – Chief Executive officer of the newly launched Be-mobile says the company is overwhelmed by the outcome of yesterday's launching.
CEO, Michael Ah koy says turn out of the public to the dealers have ensured them that people need better communication services at cheaper prices.
He says Be-mobile have master dealers who have agents that people can get access to top ups.
Mr Mr Ah Koy also confirms that Be-mobile's cheapest phone costs one-hundred and forty nine dollars which incudes its SIM card.
It is understood Be-mobile is selling its cheapest mobile as a promotion.
Mr Ah Koy Be-mobile is going well with its 28 percent of total coverage while its is working on doubling the coverage and later achieving 80 percent coverage of the country.
OUR TELEKOM POSITIVE ABOUT COMPETITION
SIBC News, 1 September 2010 – Our Telekom is deciding funding more sites in appropriate locations in which the company can meet the access demand to it's mobile network services and business objectives.
Speaking to the local media a day after the launch of Be-mobile, Our Telekom's Chief Executive Officer Loyly Ngira says the company is now launching some of it's sites which are part of it's 'Unity Blong Community Projects' in various provinces.
Our Telekom's Unity Blong Community Project looks at increasing and improving access further in rural areas.
He says since the end of August they have about 90-thousand breeze customers compared to a humble beginning in 2003 when they first introduced the GSM mobile service which only had 300 customers.
Meanwhile, in welcoming Be-mobile's launch yesterday, Our Telekom's Chief Executive Officer says the launch of a second telecommunication service provider in the country gives Our Telekom strong motivation to improve and continue to develop it's existing network across the country.
"We are intending to growth it further because we believe there is market potential for grow and the increase in access will enable the people to buy more mobile phones and SIMS so that they can have access. We know that there will be pressure on the customers number, but we look forward that we can still grow our market share and continue to increasing access to the network that Solomon Telekom provides to the people."
FIJI SUSPENDS ITSELF FROM REGIONAL GROUP
SIBC News, 1st September 2010 – Fiji has temporarily suspended itself from all the Melanesian Spearhead Group M-S-G formal meetings.
Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola said affirms Fiji’s position that it will temporarily stand aside from participating in MSG formal meetings.
He said this is to allow MSG leaders the necessary breathing space and autonomy to resolve the outstanding issue of the chairmanship of the MSG due to the deferred MSG Leaders Summit before its formal re-engagement in MSG forums.
Fiji was to replace Vanuatu as chair of the regional group at the MSG Leaders Summit that was initially scheduled to be held in Natadola, Fiji, in July.
Ratu Inoke reiterated that the MSG countries have come out stronger, not only as a prominent and influential sub-regional group in the Pacific Region, but more importantly as individual nations.
He said that in respecting this decision, Fiji will temporarily opt out of MSG sub-committee meetings, MSG Officials meetings and other formal MSG meetings.
Ratu Inoke, however, noted that Fiji will participate in the Melanesian Arts Festival in Kone, New Caledonia, this month.
TORA IS POLICE MINISTER
Radio New Zealand International, 31st August 2010 – Solomon Islands MP James Tora has been sworn-in as the Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services.
This means that all 24 ministerial posts in the new Danny Philip led Government have now been filled.
Mr Tora was Police Minister in the previous administration of Dr Derek Sikua.
He has called for the Government to settle down and start work because the people won’t wait while their MPs play politics.
Earlier this week there had been signs the new government might fracture with local reports that Snyder Rini had sided with the Opposition, but on Monday afternoon he was sworn in as Planning Minister.
TUHANUKU COMMENTS ON QUALITY OF LEADERS
SIBC News, 1st September 2010 – A national leader Joses Tuhanuku has suggested that Solomon Islanders must wait and see how Government Ministers perform before judging them.
Responding to questions by SIBC on the quality of the Danny Philip's government Ministers, Mr Tuhanuku says people must not jump to conclusions about what kind of leaders are now holding Cabinet posts.
He says before judging any leaders including government Ministers, people must clear about how the quality of leaders is assessed and how leaders are elected.
"First, when we want to look at the quality of any person, not only Ministers holding an important post in our country, the first thing that we need to look at is the character of the person. Then education, how much formal education the person has had, the the third thing we look at is what experience has the person got outside of Parliament before the person becomes a member."
Mr Tuhanuku is a director of the National Provident Fund and Chair of the South Pacific Oil Limited.
RINI AND LILO SWORN IN AS CABINET MINISTERS
Tutuvatu News, 30th August 2010 – Two MPs at the centre of media speculation in the past days have been sworn in as cabinet ministers.
Hon. Snyder Rini, MP for Marovo and Hon. Gordon Darcy Lilo, MP for Gizo-Kolombangara, have been sworn in by the Governor General at the Government House this afternoon.
Hon. Lilo was sworn in the minister of Finance and Treasury while Hon. Rini settled for the Ministry for Development Planning and Aid Coordination.
Today’s ceremony ends speculations that Hon. Rini had moved to the Opposition side amid disagreements between the two MPs over who should take on the finance and treasury portfolio.
The swearing in of the two new ministers now brings the number of ministers to 22. A total of 20 Ministers were sworn-in last week.
The Ministry of Police and National Security is the only portfolio that is yet to be filled.
TONGA DECLINES SOLOMON ISLANDS REQUEST
SIBC News, 30 August 2010 - Tongan authorities will conduct their own investigations into the recent shooting and death of a former police officer from Guadalcanal Province, according to laws of the Kingdom of Tonga.
The rock throwing incident at Titinge on the 12th of this month which led to the death of the late Harry Lolongo had prompted the Solomon Islands government through the Attorney General Gabriel Suri to send two requests to the Tongan government through his Tongan counterpart.
The two requests included waiving two components under the Assistance Mission Facilitation Act to pave way for the two Tongan military personnel involved to be tried the country and to give authority for Solomon Islands to have jurisdiction as RAMSI officers have preserved criminal disciplinary jurisdiction.
Speaking to SIBC News this afternoon, Attorney General Gabriel Suri confirmed that the Tongan cabinet had declined the requests because according to their views and findings, there is no evidence of criminal culpability on the part of the Tongan military personnel.
Mr Suri says the Tongan Cabinet was of the view that their personnel were acting in self defence in a highly dangerous situation and that they had acted within the rules of engagement.
The Attorney General explains that the Tongan authorities declined to waiver the immunity and then asserted jurisdiction over members of the Tongan Defence Force Platoon.
Mr Suri says the Tongan Solicitor General also explained how investigations in Tonga will be carried out.
FUNERAL SERVICE FOR LATE MP LAORE
SIBC News, 30th August 2010 – A funeral service was held in Honiara for the late member of Parliament for the Shortland Islands, Western Province, Steve Laore this morning.
Members of the new Danny Philip government, MPs, friends and relatives of the late Laore and others attended the funeral service at the Seventh Day Adventist Maranatha Hall at Lunga east of Honiara.
The body of the late Laore will be taken to his home in the Shortlands today.
The Government Communications Unit says Deputy Prime Minister, Manasseh Maelanga and Minister for Provincial Government, Braddley Tovosia are expected to accompany the body of the late MP to his home.
The late Laore collapsed and died at the Pacific Casino Hotel early Thursday morning last week after attending a function hosted by Prime Minister Philip.
NEW ZEALAND FOREIGN MINISTER TO VISIT HONIARA
SIBC News, 30th August 2010 – New Zealand Foreign Minister Murray McCully will call in Honiara this afternoon as part of visit to several Pacific island countries.
Mr McCully will arrive at the Henderson International Airport at 3pm in the afternoon with a 30-people delegation including New Zealand MPs and New Zealand media.
The delegation will include M-Ps, business people and representatives from non-government organisations.
New Zealand High Commission in Honiara says it is Mr McCully's 2010 Pacific Mission and it would provide opportunities for a range of New Zealand representatives to look at the development challenges the countries faced and how assistance could best be focused.
While in Honiara, the New Zealand Foreign Minister will meet with the Prime Minister, Danny Phillip, and members of the new Solomon Islands government.
Mr McCully was quoted as saying he is looking forward to meeting and working with Prime Minister Phillip to further strengthen the two countries relationship.
CALL FOR AUTHORITIES TO ADDRESS LAND ISSUES
SIBC News, 30th August 2010 – A local school teacher from West Are Are says the new government must focus more on land reform issues and empower tribal chiefs.
Gabriel Riotarau says successive government have came up with development policies without seriously addressing land reform but no real development happened.
He says government should also empower chiefs and recognise them as an important in achieving development.
Mr Gabriel says involvement of tribal chiefs in the development process would reduce land disputes and therefore enhance development in rural areas.
While congratulating Danny Phillip as the new Prime Minister, Mr Gabriel reminds the government that if land issues is ignored no development will happen in country.
In related news, another Malaita man says the Provincial and the national Government should finance proper land registration in the Province to allow development to take place.
Edwin Gani says its very important for the people in Malaita to release their land and permit their resources to be developed, however he says this can only take place with the proper tracing and registration of land.
Gani told SIBC News the Provincial members need to work with Chiefs and produce a proposal for assistance for the national government to support the registration of land.
He says landowners and tribes can use the fund to trace their family tree, allow reconciliation to take place and register their land.
Gani calls on the people including community leaders, provincial members and the national government to work together to address the issue.
SNYDER RINI SWITCHES & JOINS OPPOSITION
SIBC News, 29 August 2010 - A tussle between two government M-Ps over the Finance and Treasury ministerial portfolio has resulted in yet another political grass hopping move that has shed government numbers into the tie zone.
Member of Parliament for Marovo, Snyder Rini switched allegiance to the Opposition only hours after the swearing in of 21 Cabinet Minister's last Friday.
The move is reportedly related to the Finance Ministry portfolio being given to MP for Gizo-Kolombangara Gordon Darcy Lilo instead of him.
The portfolio was vacant as Prime Minister Danny Phillip organised his Cabinet to be sworn in last Friday because he was undecided on who to assign the key ministry to.
Two other Ministry's were also left vacant - the Police and National Security portfolio and the Ministry of National Planning and Aid Coordination.
Prime Minister Phillip's new government was dealt another blow with the sudden death of the Shortland's M-P Steve Laore who had died less than twenty-four hours after the Prime Ministers elections.
Rini's switch has now left the government coalition with twenty-four M-Ps, while the Opposition has increased its side to twenty-five.
It is still unknown if the Marovo M-P switched to the Opposition camp with or without terms and conditions.
NEW CABINET LINE-UP
SIBC News, 27th August 2010 – Cabinet Ministers of the Danny Philip government have taken their oath today before the Governor General Sir Frank Kabui.
Out of the 24 ministries 21 Ministers have taken their oaths with only three portfolios to be filled.
They are the Ministry of Finance and Treasury, Ministry of Police and National Security and Ministry of Development, Planning and Aid Coordination.
The Cabinet Minister are: Prime Minister, Danny Philip; Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs, Manasseh Maelanga; Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Relations, Peter Shanel Agovaka; Minister for Education and Human Resources, Dickson Ha’amori; Minister for Health and Medical Services, Charles Sigoto; Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, Selwyn Riumana; Minister of Forests, Heinz Bodo Dettke; Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Jimmy Lusibaea; Minister of Lands and housing, Martin Sopage; Minister for Environment and Conservation, John Moffat Fugui; Minister of Mines and Energy, Mark Kemakeza; Minister for Law and Justice, Commins Aston Mewa and Minister for Public Service, Douglas Ete.
The others are: Minister for Provincial Government, Bradley Tovosia; Minister for Commerce, Industry and Employment, Elijah Doro Muala; Minister for Tourism and Culture, Samuel Manetoali; Minister of Infrastructure Development, Jackson Fiulaua; Minister for Aviation and Communication, Varian Longamei;
Minister for Rural Development and Indigenous Affairs, Lionel Alex; Minister for Women, Youth and Sports, Joseph Onika and Minister for Peace and Reconciliation.
SIKUA OFFERS ADVICE TO NEW GOVERNMENT
SIBC News, 28th August 2010 – Out-going rime Minister Derek Sikua has urged the new government to continue with what his coalition left behind.
Dr Sikua issues a statement congratulating his successor, Danny Philip of South New Georgia, Rendova and Tetepare in the Western Province on his election victory.
He says the pressing issues that face the country faces at this crucial time of our history is common knowledge to everyone.
Dr Sikua says the events of the ethnic unrest and April 2006 reflects the deeper undercurrents that the new government must seek to find solutions to.
The out-going Prime Minister says he hopes the new government will carry on the business of governing with a view to redirecting the course of the nation to the goals it has set.
Dr Sikua says the Draft and Federal Constitution must be pursued vigorously and adopted.
He says the government must introduce targeted and focused growth strategies for the rural economy and redirect economic economic policies to empower resource owners to participate in the economy.
He said the new Government must introduce a number of legislative measures in Parliament, for example an Anti Corruption Bill to minimise and eventually stamp out the root causes and adverse effects of corruption.
Meanwhile, Dr Sikua says he hopes the new Government recognises the efforts of national leaders in trying to deal with the root causes of the 'ethnic tension'.
He urges the new government to continue the ongoing peace talks between the Malaita and Guadalcanal Provincial Governments and other relevant issues relating to the national peace building process.
Dr Sikua says the truth and nothing but the truth will lead to true reconciliation.
He says the government must continue to support the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission as an essential step to social cohesion, national healing and unity.
OPPOSITION PARTIES PROMISE TO REMAIN TOGETHER
SIBC News, 27th August 2010 – As the country's new Prime Minister Danny Phillip swore in his Cabinet Ministers late this afternoon, the Opposition Camp says its 24 M-P-elects are pledging to remain together.
The camp's candidate, Fataleka M-P-elect, Steve Abana lost the race for Prime Minister by one vote, and one spoilt ballot.
The government's numbers had however been reduced by the sudden death of Shortlands M-P-elect Steve Laore, less than 24 hours after the Prime Minister's elections.
Opposition spokesperson, John Keniapisia told S-I-B-C News, the camp had agreed to continue as the country's Opposition during their meeting after Wednesday's Prime Minister's Election.
The Opposition spokesperson also says they have yet to decide on a candidate for the Speaker of Parliament elections and this will be done as soon as they elect their leader.
He says Wednesday's meeting was only to re-affirm their number and another meeting to settle their leadership was scheduled for today.
GUADALCANAL PROVINCE WARNS LAND OCCUPANTS
SIBC News, 27th August 2010 – The Guadalcanal Provincial government has warned both legal and illegal occupants of land within the Lungga/Henderson area, east of Honiara.
Premier Stephen Panga says the Provincial Government has taken this action because it is very concerned about the sporadic and uncontrolled developments taking place in the area.
Mr Panga says that the majority of development undertakings within the area have been done without the approval of the Guadalcanal Province Town and Country Planning Board.
He says Board is the legitimate authority to approve developments within its areas of jurisdiction.
Premier Panga says that the Guadalcanal Provincial Assembly had recently approved the zoning plan for the area in its recent meeting in April 2010.
He says the Provincial Government warns everyone concerned that it is carrying a survey of all developments in the area and will impose penalties on anyone breaching the requirements of the Town and Country Planning Act.
Mr Panga says the trend of developments is sheer ignorance, gross disrespect, intentional and orchestrated breach of legal and regulatory requirements of the the law.
He says repeated breaking of these acts have left the Provincial government with no room for complacency as it is determined to uphold the law relating to such developments.
BAINIMARAMA EXPECTS TO MEET PHILIP SOON
Fiji Sun News, 27th August 2010 – A meeting is expected to take place soon between Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama and newly elected Solomon Islands Prime Minister Danny Philip.
Both have declared their interest in discussing bilateral issues as soon as possible.
“I am looking forward to meet him at the earliest opportunity to exchange views on matters of common interest,” Commodore Bainimarama said in responding to queries from the Fiji Sun.
Mr Philip, shortly after being elected on Wednesday, indicated strong support for Fiji and a willingness for close engagement.
Commodore Bainimarama said Fiji and Solomon Islands have enjoyed very close and cordial ties for many years.
“Our strong relationship has proven to be one of the most significant and unwavering partnership that has continuously contributed to our mutual prosperity and the well-being of our peoples,” he said.
In his congratulatory message to Mr Philip, Commodore Bainimarama said he believes that under Mr Philip’s leadership, their governments will continue to work closely to promote sustainable development and jointly address issues of common concern.
“Moreover, I am confident that with your firm determination, the Solomon Islands will continue to play an essential role in strengthening the Melanesian Spearhead Group cooperation and community building in our region.
“I also trust that our long-standing cooperation in various regional and international events will be further enhanced for our mutual benefits,” he said,
Mr Philip, who is continuing with the policy of outgoing PM Dr Derek Sikua, said that the isolation of Fiji from the Pacific Islands Forum is a serious mistake.
IN SOLOMONS, INDEPENDENTS ARE THE RULE
By Jon Fraenkel
The Australian, 29 August 2010 - AUSTRALIA continues to ponder the difficulties of forging a government that depends crucially on a handful of independents.
Meanwhile, one of our island neighbours last week selected a government packed full of independents, with nothing like the robust Australian party system in sight.
On August 25, Danny Philip was selected by 26 votes to 23 (with one abstention) as the new Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, heading a coalition mostly composed of first-time MPs without any clear party affiliation. For the Solomons, this was business as usual.
Every Solomon Islands government since 1990 has relied on politicians with fluid allegiances, who tend to switch to and fro between factions in search of personal advantage. This makes the business of government tricky and tough.
Nevertheless, the outcome of this year's Solomon Islands election will come as some relief in Canberra, and for the Australian security personnel and civil servants stationed in the country under the auspices of the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands.
The Australian-led mission, which has been in the country since 2003 charged with keeping the peace and building the state, has faced some difficult times.
After the last election in 2006, the selection of Snyder Rini as prime minister triggered riots in the capital, Honiara, and the burning down of the Chinatown district, as well as attacks on RAMSI personnel and vehicles.
Rini soon resigned under pressure, and was replaced by Manasseh Sogavare, who led a government during 2006-7 that was hostile to RAMSI and which expelled an Australian high commissioner and an Australian police chief.
This time around, the election, held on August 4, was reasonably peaceful, although there were some breakdowns in public order. Angry crowds, generally the backers of losing candidates, took to the streets on the islands of Malaita, Ngella and at Lata in Temotu Province.
On August 12, Tongan soldiers serving with RAMSI opened fire on a stone-throwing crowd celebrating an election victory at Titinge on the outskirts of the capital, Honiara, killing one man and injuring another, but senior RAMSI officials moved swiftly to calm tensions.
The prime ministerial election, three weeks after the general election, took place without a violent reaction.
Solomon Islands elections are usually two-stage events, with the public having little control over what kind of government they eventually get.
The first stage entailed the election of the 50 members of parliament, most of whom have no party affiliation but attract votes based on kinship links, church allegiances or personal popularity.
About half of the MPs elected are usually first-timers, and this was again the case this year.
Once elected, the MPs travelled to Honiara, where they separated into rival camps based at the town's main hotels, the Heritage Park, the Pacific Casino, the Mendana and the Honiara Hotel.
From there the political "big men" courted the newcomers with offers of ministerial portfolios, headships of state-owned corporations and cash.
Without a party system in place, those out in the rural constituencies have little certainty about which faction their representatives will choose. Anger about lack of control over the prime ministerial selection process triggered the Honiara riots in 2006.
The election this year was the first for more than a decade in which there was a concerted effort to beef up the political party system.
The outgoing prime minister, Derek Sikua, tried in March to pass a constitutional amendment aimed at strengthening political parties. He failed to obtain the required two-thirds majority because of opposition within his own cabinet, and responded by sacking those ministers believed to be responsible.
Despite this setback, the rest of Sikua's ministers agreed that while they would contest the election in their numerous parties, they would again seek to align together after the polls.
Sikua is a member of the one-MP Liberal Party. Other ministers belong to the Solomon Islands Democratic Party, which claimed 14 members after the election, and a right to govern on the grounds that the SIDP was the largest party in parliament.
Sikua agreed to step aside, enabling SIDP leader Steve Abana - an MP from northern Malaita - to obtain the nomination for the Heritage Park faction, although not without some internal wrangling among the party bosses who wanted to try a shot at the top job themselves.
Meanwhile, at the other end of town, the Pacific Casino faction, whose leaders included several renegades from Sikua's government, pursued the more traditional Melanesian strategy.
They chose Philip, a veteran politician from the western province, as their nominee. Playing on long-standing fears of Malaitan dominance, they pointed out that both Abana and the recently appointed Governor-General, Frank Kabui, were from Malaita.
First-time MPs expected only a role as bit players in a SIDP-led government, but Philip handed out powerful ministries. Bodo Dettke, a logging magnate, took on forestry and Jimmy "Rasta" Lusibaea - former commander of the Malaita Eagle Forces - became Fisheries Minister. Another ex-militant, Manasseh Maelanga, has become Deputy Prime Minister.
Despite his success, Philip will face difficulties sustaining loyalties over the longer term in a land where politicians switch sides regularly and where independents are vital to the formation of every government.
Jon Fraenkel is a senior research fellow at the Australian National University. He participated in the international electoral observation mission to the Solomon Islands this month.
NZ DELEGATE TO VISIT PACIFIC ISLAND COUNTRIES
SIBC News, 28th August 2010 – A New Zealand delegation including MPs, business people and non-governmental organisations will visit three countries in the Pacific region next week, to look at their development challenges.
Radio New Zealand International says the 2010 Pacific Mission, led by the Foreign Affairs Minister, Murray McCully, will visit Solomon Islands, Kiribati and Samoa.
Mr McCully says in Solomon Islands, he will underline New Zealand’s commitment to strengthening its development work and contribution to the Regional Assistance Mission.
The visit to Kiribati will focus on the challenges faced on the densely-populated atoll of Tarawa, as well the tourism opportunities for Kiritimati - or Christmas - Island.
’s tsunami, which left more than 140 people dead.
