BY JOY OFASIA
Finance and Treasury Minister Hon. Rexon Ramofafia is asking Parliament to approve a temporary spending arrangement for the start of the 2027 financial year, after political instability delayed work on the 2027 Budget Strategy Paper.
Speaking in Parliament, Minister Ramofafia said the Government needs more time to prepare a credible budget based on the country’s realistic revenue position.
“The unprecedented political instability has also contributed to disruption and the delay of approval of the 2027 Budget Strategy Paper over the past few days,” he told Parliament.
The Minister said preparing a realistic 2027 Budget is one of the first important tasks of the GREAT Coalition Government. He said the Government must ensure that planned spending matches the revenue it can realistically collect.
He said the process is aimed at helping stabilise the country’s financial position and putting government finances on a more sustainable and responsible path.
“This exercise, sir, I mean, we need time,” Mr Ramofafia said.
With the 2027 Appropriation Act expected to be delayed, the Minister said the Constitution and the Public Financial Management Act 2013 allow Parliament to approve temporary spending before the new budget law takes effect.
Under the proposed arrangement, the Finance and Treasury Minister would be able to authorise money from the Consolidated Fund to keep essential government services running.
The temporary funding would cover normal recurring expenses and ongoing development contracts that were previously approved by Parliament.
However, the Government would not be allowed to increase spending beyond the level of services provided during the previous financial year.
The temporary authority would remain in place for up to four months from the beginning of the 2027 financial year. It would end earlier if the 2027 Appropriation Act comes into force.
The Government is therefore seeking Parliament’s approval for the interim arrangement while it continues consultations, reviews expected revenue and completes the 2027 Budget.
The move is intended to prevent disruption to public services while giving the Government enough time to prepare a budget that better reflects the country’s financial situation.
BY TONY IROGA
Leader of Opposition Manasseh Sogavare has supported Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s motion for Parliament to adjourn sine die, saying the Government needs time to work on important policy and legislative matters.
Mr Sogavare made the remarks in Parliament today while contributing to the motion moved by Prime Minister Wale.
He also referred to the resolution moved by Minister of Finance Rexon Ramofafia, saying the Government must now use the available time to work on the national budget.
“The Prime Minister moving this motion is very comforting to know.
“This was a resolution, a motion by the Minister of Finance, and so he must work on that to get that budget through,” Sogavare said.
Sogavare said Parliament had provided four months for the Government to complete its work on the budget.
“We know that the motion is very clear. So, we’re seeing it go past December of this year, and we’re still working on the budget.
“The Parliament has given us this provision for four months, and we’re still completing the budget,” he said.
Sogavare also raised concerns about major Government policy announcements, including the proposed introduction of free education in 2027.
He said there needs to be greater clarity about how such policies will be funded and implemented.
“People basically say that in 2027 we’re going to make school free.
“But from now until when the budget is coming out, we really need to be open as well,” he said.
He said the Opposition has been asking questions about the policy but are yet to receive clear answers from the Government.
“This side of the House are asking a lot of questions about how will this thing really look like?
“There is no really clear response from the Government as to how this thing will look like.”
He warns that Government needs to ensure people understood the implications of major policy decisions.
“There are about 800,000 people out there who probably do not understand.
“We don’t want to have a revolt in our hands come 2027, when schools will probably come to a grinding halt because of getting the needed resources to continue to fund this,” he said.
Sogavare also called for more time and consultation on the Mineral Resources Bill.
He said the Bill contains major proposed changes that require wider consultation with the people before Parliament considers it.
“We feel that we need a lot of consultations with the people,” he said.
Sogavare said the Legislative Committee’s recommendations should be considered seriously, including the possibility of withdrawing the current Bill and introducing a new one.
“The right thing to do is to withdraw the Bill in its entirety and then work on the serious amendments that the Bills Legislative Committee is recommending,” he said.
He said a new 2026 Bill could then be introduced to incorporate the new policy directions and allow for further consultation.
“We need that time to do that,” Sogavare said.
He also urges the Government and Opposition to maintain healthy debate in Parliament, saying parliamentary scrutiny is important in developing sound policies.
“The Government is in the business of coming up with a policy.
“We scrutinise and, in the end result, we come up with a policy that is well polished and something that can work for the country,” he said.
Sogavare thanked Prime Minister Wale for moving the sine die motion and said the spirit of working together should continue.
“I have no problem if you need time to come and talk about it, so I support this motion of sine die moved by Prime Minister Matthew Wale,” he said.
Photo credit: NPSI
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BY RODRICK DESURI
Auki
Constituents of West Kwaio in Malaita Province have thanked their Member of Parliament, Claudius Tei’ifi, for answering their call and for joining the GREAT Coalition over the weekend.
The call was based on the constituents’ desire for their MP to pledge his continued support for the progress of the Bina Harbour development project, which they hope will ease their struggles and bring greater benefits to the people of West Kwaio.
Last weekend a motion of confidence was submitted to parliament by Manasseh Maelanga, MP for East Malaita but was then withdrawn on Sunday, September 6.
MP Claudius Tei’ifi, was on the Opposition side when the motion of no confidence was submitted.
Speaking on behalf of constituents both within and outside the constituency, Jack Gulauma said Mr Tei’ifi’s decision shows courage, leadership and commitment to the people he represents.
He appeals to MP Tei’ifi to work closely with Prime Minister Matthew Wale and his government to ensure the long-awaited and much-discussed Bina Harbour project becomes a reality.
“On behalf of the people of West Kwaio, we want to thank Honourable Claudius Tei’ifi for joining the GREAT Coalition in response to our call.
“We also appeal to him to work closely with PM Wale and his government to implement the much-talked-about Bina Harbour project and make it a reality,” he said.
Mr Gulauma said the people of West Kwaio will continue to work with and support their MP and his office during the remaining months of the current term to ensure services and projects are delivered to the people.
“We will continue to work with you in these remaining months so that services and projects for West Kwaio Constituency are delivered effectively and efficiently. God bless West Kwaio Constituency and the people of Solomon Islands,” he said.
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BY TONY IROGA
PRIME Minister Matthew Wale has welcomed the decision by East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga to withdraw the motion of no confidence against the government.
Mr Maelanga, who moved the motion and signed the notice on August 29, withdrew it today, September 6, bringing an end to several days of political uncertainty and speculation.
Speaking to the Solomon Star News today, Mr Wale thanked Mr Maelanga for his decision, describing it as a responsible step in the current political situation.
“Thank you, my brother, Father MP Manasseh Maelanga, for withdrawing this motion of no confidence,” Wale said.
The Prime Minister said he had been concerned about the growing emotions, public opinion and anger surrounding the political situation.
“I have been quite concerned since I became aware, when I landed in Palau, that emotions and public opinion, and I think also a rising level of public anger, in terms of how leaders behave in these situations,” he said.
Wale said such situations were not good for the public and welcomed the spirit in which Mr Maelanga had acted.
“He told a story on Friday and he informed me on Friday afternoon that this was what he would do over the weekend, and he accepted the decision for him,” Mr Wale said.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged that the situation had taught him the importance of listening more and consulting more with ministers and Members of Parliament.
“I have learnt a lot to listen more and to consult more,” he said.
Wale stressed that while change was necessary, it must be achieved through collective decision-making within the government.
“Change must happen because change should have happened many years ago and it didn’t happen,” he said.
“But of course, we must listen more to ministers, MPs and government and carry them with Cabinet. I think that’s very important.”
Wale also clarified that decisions resulting in changes within the government were not made by him alone.
“I want to make it very, very clear that change where happen is the change that caucus and Cabinet approved,” he said.
“It’s not something done by myself and decided by myself. There’s collective decision-making where the GREAT Coalition is practising.”
The Prime Minister said his government remained committed to providing leadership and pursuing changes that would benefit the country and future generations.
“I want to assure people of Solomon Islands that leadership of our government, our country, and carry a great burden but also with great responsibility to make sure that the country goes ahead on the pathway for change,” Mr Wale said.
He said the changes being pursued must ultimately be in the best interests of Solomon Islands and its people.
“Change where good for all of us, good for country, good for our children, future,” he said.
Mr Wale again thanked the East Malaita MP for withdrawing the motion.
“Again, I want to repeat, I like to thank him, MP, for his decision to withdraw the motion,” he said.
BY TONY IROGA
PRIME Minister Matthew Wale today held bilateral talks with visiting United States Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in Honiara.
The talks focused on areas of mutual interest between Solomon Islands and the United States, including the planned return of the US Peace Corps programme to the country after more than two decades.
The Prime Minister’s Office said the meeting was a demonstration of the historic and enduring partnership between the two countries.
Welcoming Deputy Secretary Landau, Prime Minister Wale said the relationship between Solomon Islands and the United States was built on shared history, democratic values and strong people-to-people links.
“Our relationship is built on shared history, democratic values, and strong people-to-people links,” PM Wale said.
He also recalled the Peace Corps’ active presence in Solomon Islands during the 1990s, when volunteers worked with communities and rural villages in areas including education, health and sports.
“The return of the Peace Corps will revive fond memories of that partnership and further strengthen cooperation between our two countries,” the statement said.
The two leaders also discussed Solomon Islands’ economic development priorities and areas where the United States could provide further support.
Deputy Secretary Landau reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to working with Solomon Islands to promote stability, prosperity and people-centred development in the Pacific region.
The visit is expected to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and people-to-people ties between Solomon Islands and the United States.
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The mover of the Motion of No Confidence (MoNC) against Prime Minister Matthew Wale, Hon. Manasseh Maelanga, has withdrawn the motion.
Mr Maelanga confirmed the withdrawal this afternoon in an exclusive interview with SBMOnline.
He has also signed the required documents formalising the withdrawal and submitted them to the National Parliament.
The decision comes one week after Mr Maelanga, who previously served as Minister of Home Affairs in the GREAT Coalition Government, filed the Motion of No Confidence against Prime Minister Wale.
The motion had been expected to become a major focus of parliamentary proceedings, with MPs preparing for what was anticipated to be a significant political contest.
However, Mr Maelanga’s decision to withdraw the motion brings the parliamentary challenge to an end.
The withdrawal is expected to ease some of the political uncertainty surrounding the GREAT Coalition Government following the filing of the motion last week.
Mr Maelanga is expected to explain the reasons behind his decision in a statement on the withdrawal.
BY TONY IROGA
The GREAT Government’s parliamentary numbers have increased to 31 MPs after two more Members of Parliament crossed the floor to join the coalition.
The two MPs are Lau Baelelea Constituency MP Ben Maenu’u and West Kwaio Constituency MP Claudius Teifi.
In a statement issued today, both MPs pledged their allegiance to the GREAT Coalition Government and committed to working with Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale.
They said their decision was aimed at supporting stability, continuity and effective leadership for the country.
Prime Minister Wale formally welcomed the two MPs into the Government and thanked them for their confidence and commitment to serving the people of Solomon Islands.
“With the latest additions, the GREAT Government’s numbers now stand at 31 MPs,” the statement said.
The latest move comes on the eve of tomorrow’s Motion of No Confidence, with parliamentary numbers expected to be closely watched as MPs prepare for the vote.
Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare urges GREAT to answer concerns over governance, spending and the No Confidence Motion. The Office of the Leader of Opposition says the GREAT Coalition Government should stop using its three months in office as a shield from legitimate scrutiny and answer the substantive concerns behind the Motion of No Confidence. Opposition [...]
The post GREAT SHOULD STOP HIDING BEHIND THREE MONTHS AND START ANSWERING THE REAL ISSUES appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
-Opposition questions house rented by Mines Ministry at $208k per month belonging to family of Prime Minister Wale
-Opposition say despite rental beginning December 2025, Mines Ministry only just began moving in in August 2026
BY JOSES SAREN
The Opposition is demanding answers from Prime Minister Matthew Wale over the rental of yet another house belonging to his family.
In a statement yesterday, Opposition said the Ministry of Mines is renting a house belonging to PM Wale’s family at $208,000 a month. Island Sun has sighted the tenancy agreement, which dates commencement on December 1, 2025, to be reviewed on November 31, 2026.
Wale has not responded to enquiries sent him via his press secretariat yesterday.
Similar to the arrangement with PM Wale’s house the Ministry of Forestry (MoFR) is renting, the tenancy agreement with the Ministry of Mines (MMERE) was signed by THM Logistics Ltd as landlord, the company registered to PM Wale’s daughter, Tamra Wale.
The rental deal with MoFR is worth $100,000 per month. This one with MMERE is $208,000 per month.
Opposition also question Wale over an invoice by THM Logistic Ltd to the MMERE worth $624,000 for three months – April, May, June, 2026 – the second quarter of this year.
Furthermore, for eight months MMERE paid rent for the house but no officer of the Ministry worked there. Opposition said MMERE only began moving into the premises in August. During this period of non-occupancy, from December last year to July this year, government would have paid around $1,664,000.
The commercial tenancy agreement runs for 12 months, and names THM Logistics Limited as landlord. The premises is at Manasuta Avenue, Lengakiki, Opposition statement yesterday said.
Leader of Opposition Manasseh Sogavare is calling on Government to explain whether the ministry had taken possession of, occupied or received the benefit of the premises during the April-to-June period.
“The Government was invoiced $624,000 for April, May and June. The Ministry is said to have begun moving in only in August. The question is simple: what exactly were taxpayers paying for during those three months?” the Opposition Leader said.
He also questioned whether the keys had been handed over and whether the building was complete, secure, serviced and fit for occupation, calling for evidence to support any claim that the ministry had possession or use of the property.
The Opposition said the issue goes beyond a routine rental payment, noting that the stated monthly rent amounts to $208,000 and the April-to-June invoice alone totals $624,000.
If the ministry was not in occupation during that period, the Government should explain whether the premises were vacant, undergoing works, being fitted out, used by another party or unavailable for the ministry’s intended use, Opposition said.
“Public money cannot be paid simply because a contract has been signed,” the Opposition said, arguing that before a ministry pays rent, it must be able to show that it has taken possession and that the premises are available and fit for use.
Opposition has also raised questions over the ownership and authority behind the tenancy arrangement.
Opposition said the Certificate of Title identifies Veronica Wale, wife of Prime Minister Matthew Wale, as the registered Fixed Term Estate holder, while THM Logistics Limited is named as landlord in the tenancy agreement.
Opposition said THM Logistics Limited does not own the property and that there is no registered lease in its favour on the Certificate of Title.
Opposition is therefore calling on Government to disclose the instrument that authorised THM Logistics Limited to grant the ministry the tenancy and receive rental payments in connection with the property.
“This is a matter of public confidence,” the Opposition Leader said, questioning whether THM Logistics had authority from the registered holder, whether the arrangement was legally reviewed, whether proper procurement was followed and whether every payment was properly authorised.
Opposition said that if the ministry had possession and use of the premises from April, the Government should prove it. If not, it must explain why taxpayers were charged $624,000 before the ministry moved in.
Earlier this year, the Pacific Accounts Committee (PAC) scrutinised the Ministry of Forestry (MoFR) over a $1.5 million in its supplementary budget for 2026 for the rental of a house.
Island Sun reported following the PAC hearing that the house belonged to PM Wale, and that the landlord which signed the tenancy agreement with MoFR, THM Logistics Ltd, was owned by PM Wale’s daughter Tamra Wale.
MoFR had explained to PAC that they had chosen Wale’s house since it was located close to the Ministry’s headquarter.
Opposition later released a statement revealing that the house was built on land which PM Wale was the title holder.
The two tenancy agreements were inked when Wale was still Opposition leader.
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Opposition questions the return of Kuma to Prime Minister Wale’s Cabinet amid political uncertainty and leadership concerns. The Official Opposition says the reappointment of Harry Kuma to Cabinet only days after his resignation exposes the extraordinary political confusion now engulfing Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s GREAT Coalition. Kuma was sworn in again at Government House today, [...]
The post RESIGN, RETURN, REAPPOINT: GREAT’S REVOLVING DOOR CONTINUES appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Trevor Manemahaga, Member of Parliament for Gao-Bugotu, has joined the ruling GREAT Coalition Government. Manemahaga resigned from Our Party today...
The post Trevor Manemahaga joins the Great Coalition ahead of no-confidence vote appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
The reappointment of Harry Kuma to Cabinet, days after his resignation from the same Government, has drawn sharp criticism from...
The post Resign, return, reappoint: questions mount as Kuma rejoins Cabinet days after quitting appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY JOSES SAREN
Opposition has criticised Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s removal of Gordon Darcy Lilo as Finance Minister, calling it a serious leadership error.
Lilo was reportedly removed because of his involvement in planning the current motion of no-confidence (MoNC) against PM Wale.
Lilo’s removal comes as Solomon Islanders continue to face cost-of-living pressures, limited employment opportunities, slow economic activity and concerns over public finances and national development, Opposition said in a statement last night.
Opposition said Lilo’s experience, including his service as prime minister and in senior economic and financial roles, made him an important figure in managing the country’s economic affairs.
Opposition also questioned the timing of the decision, coming immediately before Parliament was due to debate the MoNC against Wale on Monday, September 7.
“Rather than being guided by the country’s economic interests, the decision appears driven by short-term political survival and internal coalition manoeuvring,” Opposition said.
It argued that the Ministry of Finance and Treasury should not be treated as a political prize, stressing that its leadership has implications for the national budget, public expenditure, development priorities, investor confidence and engagement with development partners.
Opposition said changing the minister responsible for finance in the middle of a political crisis could create further uncertainty when the country needs “clarity, continuity, and confidence”.
While acknowledging that the Prime Minister has constitutional responsibility for ministerial appointments, Opposition said that authority must be exercised with sound judgment and in the national interest.
It further argued that ministerial powers should not be used to reward political loyalty, manage internal dissent or secure support ahead of a no-confidence vote.
BY JOSES SAREN
PRIME Minister Matthew Wale has reshuffled three Cabinet positions, bringing back Harry Kuma, moving Nestor Ghiro and appointing Isikeli Vave Jnr.
Mr Kuma has returned to the Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration Ministry, while Ghiro has been appointed Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) minister, a statement by the PM Press Secretariat today said.
Ghiro replaces Franklyn Wasi in Agriculture and Livestock, while Vave takes over the Home Affairs portfolio, replacing Ghiro who was only sworn in yesterday as home affairs minister.
The three ministers were sworn into office at Government House today, with Wale and other Cabinet members attending the ceremony.
Vave’s appointment marks his entry into Cabinet after joining the GREAT Coalition last month.
Kuma, meanwhile, returns to Cabinet after resigning as Commerce Minister on August 29 in support of the motion of no-confidence (MoNC) against PM Wale.
Government said the changes would further strengthen the GREAT Coalition.
By Georgina Maka’a Prime Minister Matthew Wale has sacked Finance and Treasury Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo, as he moves to...
The post Lilo Axed as PM Wale Moves to Save Gov’t appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
NHA ACCEPTS AUDIT FINDINGS, VOWS TO ADDRESS PACIFIC GAMES FINANCIAL AND PROCUREMENT ISSUES
The National Hosting Authority (NHA) says it accepts the findings of the Auditor-General’s Special Audit Report into the 2023 Pacific Games and the determinations made by the Court, while committing to work with relevant authorities to address the issues raised.
In a statement following the release of the special audit report, the NHA acknowledged that the audit had identified control and governance weaknesses, instances of non-compliance, negligence issues and indicators requiring further investigation.
The Authority said the findings were serious and needed to be dealt with through the appropriate processes.
“NHA acknowledges the Auditor General’s special audit report, takes its findings very seriously, and accepts the determinations made by the Court,” the statement said.
However, the NHA expressed concern that annual financial statement audits for earlier years had not been completed and provided to the organisation sooner.
It said earlier access to the audit findings, while the Games Organising Committee (GOC) was still operating, could have provided an opportunity to identify and correct weaknesses before the Games were completed.
The NHA nevertheless acknowledged that this did not remove its responsibility to respond to the matters now raised.
NHA ACCEPTS COURT RULING ON SPECIAL FUNDS
The Authority also accepted the Court’s clarification on how the Financial Management Act 2013 applies to expenditure from the Sports Solomon Fund.
According to the NHA, the ruling has implications beyond the Sports Solomon Fund because a number of special funds established by successive governments under Section 100(2) of the Constitution have operated in a similar manner.
The NHA said the ruling highlighted a wider issue within the Government’s financial management system concerning warrants for expenditure from special funds.
It said it would now work with the Ministry of Finance and Treasury to address the warrant requirements identified by the Court and ensure that existing and future special funds operate within the law.
NHA ACCEPTS RULING ON PROCUREMENT WAIVER
The Authority also accepted the Court’s ruling concerning its March 2023 Modification Policy, particularly the finding that the blanket waiver granted under the policy exceeded the NHA’s lawful authority.
The NHA explained that the policy was introduced when the country was only months away from hosting the Pacific Games.
At the time, it said, significant procurement and preparations remained outstanding, while the Pacific Games Council had raised concerns about Games readiness and called for faster procurement decisions.
The NHA said its Board believed that without accelerated procurement decisions there was a genuine risk that preparations would not be completed on time.
The Authority said the decision to increase delegated powers was made in good faith and in response to what it described as “exceptional and time-critical delivery pressures.”
While the Court has now ruled that the blanket waiver exceeded the NHA’s lawful authority, the Authority said it accepts that determination.
>>>NHA’s full statement is posted below
https://sbm.sb/nhas-statement-in-response-to-the-audit.../
PUBLIC SERVANTS URGED TO REMAIN POLITICALLY NEUTRAL AMID LEADERSHIP DEBATE
Public servants have been reminded to remain politically neutral and refrain from making public comments on the ongoing political debate between the country’s political leaders.
The reminder has been issued across the Solomon Islands Public Service as political activity intensifies following the filing of a Motion of No Confidence against Prime Minister Matthew Wale by former Home Affairs Minister Manasseh Maelanga.
The directive, circulated to senior government officials and public officers, reinforces existing requirements under the Public Service General Orders regarding political neutrality and the conduct expected of public servants.
The circular was issued by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Service Mr Luke Cheka and addressed to the Secretary to Cabinet, Secretary to the Prime Minister, Permanent Secretaries, Provincial Secretaries, Human Resource Managers and all public officers.
Titled “Public Servants to Refrain from Commenting and to Remain Neutral in Light of the Political Debate Between Our Leaders,” the circular reminds officers of their obligations under the General Orders.
Mr Cheka specifically drew attention to General Order C107 (b) and (c), which sets out provisions governing the political conduct of public servants.
Under the provisions, public officers are required to refrain from publishing, either orally or in writing, making comments, giving lectures or broadcasting anything that may be deemed to be political in nature.
“Matters of politics are the responsibility of our elected leaders,” Mr Cheka stated in the circular.
He said the responsibility of public servants is to ensure the continuity, stability and effective functioning of government administration, while maintaining professionalism and continuing to provide services to the public without bias or favour.
The Permanent Secretary also warned that officers who breach the relevant General Orders provisions would be “dealt with accordingly.”
you can also read the story here: https://sbm.sb/public-servants-urged-to-remain-neutral.../
BY NED GAGAHE
CHINA has rejected suggestions that it was involved in the political developments surrounding the motion of no confidence against Prime Minister Matthew Wale.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said China had no interest in interfering in Solomon Islands’ internal affairs and had never done so.
Guo made the statement during a regular Foreign Ministry press conference on Tuesday September 1, 2026, after Bloomberg asked whether Chinese diplomats in Solomon Islands had contact with politicians who moved the motion of no confidence against Wale.
The question also referred to comments by New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters, who had suggested that “outside forces” were involved in the political developments.
China rejected the suggestion.
“China adheres to non-interference in other countries’ internal affairs. We have never had any interest in, nor will we ever interfere in any way with the internal affairs of other countries,” Guo said.
Responding specifically to the New Zealand comments, Guo described them as completely unfounded.
He said China had always respected the sovereignty and independence of Pacific Island countries, as well as their will, culture and solidarity.
“We have no interest in and have never interfered in the internal affairs of other countries,” he said.
The comments come amid growing political uncertainty in Solomon Islands following the filing of a motion of no confidence against Prime Minister Wale.
Wale had been attending the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau but returned to Honiara to deal with the political challenge.
The developments have also attracted regional attention, with New Zealand raising concerns about possible outside influence in the Pacific political environment.
China’s response comes as geopolitical tensions between China and other regional powers continue to feature prominently at the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau.
China has separately criticised Taiwan’s participation in Forum-related events in Palau, warning of unspecified “consequences” over Taiwan’s presence.
The Solomon Islands political crisis has therefore unfolded against a wider regional backdrop of competing strategic interests and debate over external influence in Pacific affairs.
However, China has maintained that its engagement with Pacific Island countries is based on respect for their sovereignty and independence and that it does not interfere in their domestic political affairs.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry’s comments represent Beijing’s direct response to questions linking it to the current political developments in Solomon Islands.
Attorney General Gabriel Suri rejects former Justice Minister Clezy Rore’s allegations, defending his appointment and salary. Attorney General Gabriel Suri has rejected allegations made by former Justice Minister Clezy Rore, calling them false and misleading. Speaking today, Mr Suri said the issues were never raised with him directly during his appointment. “I would have addressed [...]
The post Attorney General Suri Rejects Allegations as “False and Misleading” appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
SOLOMON ISLANDS CHALLENGES PACIFIC LEADERS TO
TURN WORDS INTO ACTION
KOROR, PALAU – Solomon Islands has called on Pacific Islands Forum Leaders to translate years of regional commitments into concrete action, urging the Forum to sharpen its priorities and strengthen its strategic position in a rapidly changing global environment.
Speaking at the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Plenary Meeting today in Koror, Minister of Foreign Affairs & External Trade (MFAET), Honourable Rick Houenipwela, challenged Leaders to reflect on whether the Forum’s decisions are delivering meaningful outcomes for Pacific peoples.
Minister Houenipwela said this year’s Leaders Meeting presented an opportunity to assess whether the Forum’s commitments over the years have translated into meaningful outcomes for Pacific peoples.
“As we gather for our 55th Leaders Meeting, building on 54 Communiqués and anticipating the 55th by the end of this week, it is timely that we pause and ask ourselves honestly, whose priorities have we truly been serving?” he said.
He said the question must be considered against a rapidly changing international environment marked by geopolitical competition, conflict, financial pressures, climate change, regional security challenges and technological change.
“The world is changing, but our region must not change its principles and values. Rather, it must change its strategic posture,” Minister Houenipwela said.
He identified the Review of the Regional Architecture (RRA) as a pivotal opportunity for Leaders to determine what the Forum should prioritise and how it should position itself over the coming decade.
“This review is not a technical exercise for officials alone. It is our opportunity, as Leaders, to decide what this region truly prioritises and how it positions itself for the decade ahead,” he said.
Solomon Islands also supports reopening discussions on separating the Forum Leaders Meeting from the Forum Dialogue Partners process.
Minister Houenipwela said the Forum’s expanding membership and growing external engagement make it important for Leaders to have dedicated space to deliberate on Pacific priorities, while providing Dialogue Partners with a substantive and well-structured engagement.
“This is not a diminishment of partnerships. It is the discipline that will sustain our Forum and protect its integrity in decades to come,” he said.
He stressed that the Forum’s direction must remain anchored in the UN Charter, international law and Pacific frameworks, including the Oceans of Peace Declaration.
Minister Houenipwela called for greater regional integration where it delivers tangible benefits and reform where existing institutions no longer meet the region’s needs, underpinned by a genuinely One-CROP Pacific.
“Our answer is a region that works collectively, prioritises deliberately, and engages the world from strength grounded in our own interests, not from positions handed to us by others,” he said.
He urged Leaders to ensure the 55th Forum Meeting is remembered not simply for its Communiqué, but for the priorities it establishes and the decisions that follow.
“Let this 55th Leaders Meeting be remembered not for its Communiqué, but for its resolve,” he said.
[ENDS]
GOLD RIDGE LANDOWNERS DISMISS POLITICAL
LINK TO NO-CONFIDENCE MOTION
The three principal landowner associations representing communities connected to the Gold Ridge Mining Project have categorically rejected speculation that their recent petition to Prime Minister [PM] Matthew Wale is politically connected to the current political impasse or the Motion of No Confidence filed against the Prime Minister.
Last week, representatives of the Gold Ridge Community and Landowners Council (GRCLC), Kolobisi Tailings Dam Association and Matepono Downstream Association, together with chiefs, elders and community representatives, presented a petition to Prime Minister Wale calling for further consultation on the proposed Mineral Resources Bill 2025.
The landowners said their petition was motivated solely by concerns about the proposed legislation and its potential implications for customary landowners.
Among the concerns raised publicly by the landowners are the need for greater clarity on the legal and constitutional basis of the proposed mineral ownership framework, adequate and meaningful consultation, and stronger consideration of customary landowners' rights and their share of benefits from mineral resources.
The petition came shortly before Hon. Fr Manasseh Maelanga, MP for East Malaita and former Minister of Home Affairs, filed a Motion of No Confidence against Prime Minister Matthew Wale on Saturday 29 August 2026.
According to the notice and statements by Fr Maelanga, the motion is based on concerns that the Prime Minister had repeatedly made decisions on matters of national importance without proper consultation with or approval from Cabinet, raising questions about collective Cabinet responsibility, representative democracy and good governance.
Fr Maelanga has also stated that the motion is about confidence in the Prime Minister's leadership and is separate from ongoing investigations.
However, the three Gold Ridge landowner associations have firmly rejected any suggestion that their petition was politically motivated or connected to the Motion of No Confidence.
“We resolved to petition the Prime Minister because it was the right thing to do.
“We felt that this was the most constitutional and responsible approach rather than marching on the streets or taking any other irresponsible approach,” the three chairmen said.
The chairmen also welcomed the Prime Minister's response to their petition, particularly his indication that the matter would be taken back to Cabinet and the Government caucus for further consideration.
“We respect the response by the Prime Minister to take the matter back to Cabinet and Caucus, and we acknowledge his honourable respect for the landowners of the Gold Ridge Mining Project,” they said.
Responding to the PM’s response, GRCLC Chairman Dick Douglas said he welcomed the Prime Minister's assurance that the Government had acknowledged the concerns raised in the petition.
“Such is a response from a leader that cares for landowners,” Douglas said.
Chairman of the Kolobisi Tailings Dam Association, Primo Aumasaea, said the Prime Minister's response was particularly appreciated given the important role of the communities represented by the association.
“As landowners who accommodate the wastes from the mine, the Prime Minister's response is highly appreciated,” Aumasaea said.
Meanwhile, Matepono Downstream Association Chairman Samson Maneka said his association supported further consultation on the proposed legislation.
“Our people are the recipients of all the wastes from the mining upstream, so we support more consultations so that our people can contribute more to the Bill which will become the new law on mining,” Maneka said.
The three associations stressed that their petition should be understood strictly in the context of their responsibilities as customary landowners and communities directly affected by mining activities.
They said they have no political strings attached to the current political developments and that their engagement with the Prime Minister was undertaken through what they consider to be a peaceful, constitutional and responsible process.
The landowners said they remain committed to dialogue with the Government and other stakeholders and believe that adequate consultation is essential to ensuring that any new mining legislation is understood, accepted and provides appropriate protection and benefits for customary landowners.
//ENDS///
Photo caption: The Gold Ridge operation site. Photo supplied.
Church Body Expresses Concern
Over Political Impasse
The Solomon Islands Christian Association (SICA) expresses its deep pastoral concern over the current political tension.
This was brought about after Member of Parliament [MP] For East Malaita and Ordained Fr Priest Manasseh Maelanga filed a Motion of No Confidence against Prime Minister Matthew Cooper Wale over the weekend.
Three Cabinet Ministers also resigned from the GREAT Coalition.
At this critical moment, SICA is appealing to all leaders and citizens to act with wisdom, maturity, restraint, and responsibility for the good of the nation.
“As a Christian body serving a predominantly Christian nation, SICA reminds leaders that national life must be guided by values of peace, justice, truth, reconciliation, humility, integrity, and servant leadership.”
While recognising the constitutional rights of Parliament, SICA urges leaders to exercise these responsibilities with integrity and genuine concern for the welfare of the people.
The Association stresses that it does not speak for or against any political group but carries a moral and pastoral duty before God and the people.
It cannot remain silent when political power overshadows public service, when vulnerable communities suffer, or when division threatens national unity and stability.
SICA appeals to Members of Parliament to seek God’s wisdom, act with discernment, and allow conscience, not anger, ambition, or pressure, to guide decisions.
“Citizens are likewise urged to remain calm, peaceful, responsible, and prayerful. Churches are encouraged to continue interceding for leaders, government, opposition, and the nation.
“The Church’s role is not to take sides but to speak for peace, justice, reconciliation, and accountability.
“Leadership is a sacred trust, and its consequences endure for generations. SICA therefore calls for peace over hostility, dialogue over confrontation, service over self-interest, and unity over division.
“May God bless the leaders, the people, and the nation of Solomon Islands,” the statement said.
From the SICA Secretariate and Executive Board Members;
• The Most Archbishop Leonard Dawea-Anglican Church of Melanesia
• Rev Bishop Eric Maefonea -South Seas Evangelical Church
• Supredendant Rev. Amos Kube-United Church of Solomon Islands
• Rev Peter Kevin – Catholic Church, Honiara Archdiocese
• Mr. Lionel Dau – SICA - General Secretary
//End//
Church Body Expresses Concern
Over Political Impasse
所罗门群岛基督教协会(SICA)对当前的政治紧张局势表示深切的牧灵关切。
这一局面是在东马莱塔选区的国会议员(MP)和受任神父马纳塞·梅兰加(Manasseh Maelanga)在周末对总理马修·库珀·韦尔(Matthew Cooper Wale)提出不信任动议后产生的。
三位内阁部长也辞去了大团结联盟的职务。
在这个关键时刻,SICA呼吁所有领导人和公民以智慧、成熟、克制和责任感为国家的利益行事。
“作为一个服务于以基督教为主的国家的基督教机构,SICA提醒领导人,国家生活必须以和平、公正、真理、和解、谦卑、诚信和服务型领导的价值观为指导。”
在承认国会的宪法权利的同时,SICA敦促领导人以诚信和对人民福祉的真切关怀来履行这些责任。
该协会强调,它并不代表任何政治团体发声,也不反对任何政治团体,而是在上帝和人民面前承担道德和牧灵的责任。
当政治权力遮蔽公共服务、脆弱社区遭受苦难,或当分裂威胁国家团结与稳定时,它无法保持沉默。
SICA呼吁国会议员寻求上帝的智慧,以明智的方式行事,让良知而非愤怒、野心或压力来指导决策。
“公民同样被敦促保持冷静、和平、负责任和祈祷。教会被鼓励继续为领导人、政府、反对派和国家代祷。
“教会的角色不是站队,而是为和平、公正、和解和问责发声。
“领导力是一种神圣的信任,其后果将持续几代人。因此,SICA呼吁和平胜过敌意、对话胜过对抗、服务胜过自利、团结胜过分裂。
“愿上帝保佑所罗门群岛的领导人、人民和国家,”声明中说。
From the SICA Secretariate and Executive Board Members;
• The Most Archbishop Leonard Dawea-Anglican Church of Melanesia
• Rev Bishop Eric Maefonea -South Seas Evangelical Church
• Supredendant Rev. Amos Kube-United Church of Solomon Islands
• Rev Peter Kevin – Catholic Church, Honiara Archdiocese
• Mr. Lionel Dau – SICA - General Secretary
//End//
The Government has described claims as ‘baseless’ by the former Justice and Legal Affairs Minister Hon. Clerzy Rore’s that he was never consulted over concerns raised against the Attorney General.
In a statement issued today, the Government said Mr Rore’s claim was not surprising, given that the former minister was frequently absent from Cabinet and Caucus.
The Government said the claim reflected poor leadership, stressing that the Prime Minister’s door has always been open to ministers seeking consultation on matters of Government.
It said ministers have established avenues through Cabinet, Caucus and direct engagement with the Prime Minister to raise concerns, and that those mechanisms should be used rather than turning political disagreements into public disputes.
But the Government also questioned what it described as a striking similarity between Mr Rore’s argument and comments recently made by the Opposition Leader on the same matter.
The Opposition Leader raised a similar claim about a lack of consultation only days ago.
“Now, that very same contention has emerged as part of the justification being advanced by ministers supporting the motion against the Prime Minister,” the statement said.
“That coincidence deserves scrutiny.”
The Government said the issue was therefore no longer simply whether one minister believed he had received sufficient consultation.
“The bigger question is whether ‘lack of consultation’ is being used as a convenient political justification for a move that may have been contemplated well before the current dispute emerged,” it said.
According to the Government, the sequence of events raises legitimate questions about the real motivations behind the motion.
“If the same argument is first advanced by the Opposition and then adopted by members within the Government as a central justification for their position, the public is entitled to ask: Is this genuinely about consultation, or is consultation simply the public-facing explanation for a much broader political strategy?” the statement said.
The Government said political disagreements should be resolved through established leadership structures, including Cabinet, Caucus and direct dialogue.
“Political disagreements should be resolved through Cabinet, Caucus and dialogue, not manufactured narratives designed to justify political manoeuvring,” the statement said.
[end]
OPMC statement
The post Gov’t: Rore’s ‘no consultation’ claim, a political excuse first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Former president of the Solomon Islands People First Party (SIPFP) Joyce Konofilia has called on the party’s members of Parliament to remain with the GREAT Government and resist any attempts to influence them to change their political allegiance for personal interests.
In a facebook post statement on Monday this week, Ms Konofilia said MPs should uphold the principles of responsibility, accountability and transparency, which she described as the foundation upon which the party was formed.
“As former President of SIPFP, I am calling on our honourable MPs to remain with the GREAT Government,” she said.
Konofilia urged the MPs not to allow themselves to be coerced into changing their allegiance, warning that such actions could undermine the Party’s principles and bring it into disrepute.
She said those seeking to influence MPs for personal gain should not be allowed to manipulate the Party’s representatives.
“It is time we have responsible, accountable and transparent MPs in the Party,” Konofilia said.
She also called on SIPFP leaders and MPs to demonstrate through their actions that they remain committed to putting the interests and welfare of Solomon Islanders first.
“Let us demonstrate to our people and this nation that we care and will always put our people and their welfare first and foremost, no more, no less,” she said.
Konofilia concluded her statement by reaffirming her support for SIPFP and extending her wishes for the wellbeing of Solomon Islands.
The former SIPFP president’s call comes amid the ongoing political standoff from the motion of no-confidence noticed against Prime Minister Matthew Wale on Saturday, August 29 by former Home Affairs minister Fr Manasseh Maelanga.
Senior MPs of SIPFP were part of the revolt including government backbencher Marovo MP Chachabule Amoi, who is regarded as the natural leader of the party.
SIPFP has a bad history with recent motions of no-confidence, being involved in all four MoNC within this 12th Parliament.
The first one in December 2024, just seven months after prime minister Jeremiah Manele was elected. Mr Manele was elected PM on May 2. SIPFP was reportedly behind the move but then retreated when Manele retained majority support. One casualty of this episode was SIPFP member, MP for Renbel John Tuhaika Jnr, who was then forced to join Opposition.
The second one in May 2025 also involved SIPFP who reportedly supported current Opposition leader Manasseh Sogavare and other OUR Party MPs to leave GNUT. Mr Sogavare led a mass walkout of a total of 10 government MPs. SIPFP held back and did not follow Sogavare’s group. This MoNC subsequently failed.
In March 2026, SIPFP led the mass exodus of 12 cabinet ministers including MPs from OUR Party and others and joined camp with the Opposition. On May 7, PM Manele lost the motion of no-confidence vote.
In October 2025, there was talks for another MoNC in which SIPFP was also instrumental. However this plot was abandoned after media exposed their secret meeting in one of the conference rooms at HP Hotel.
The current MoNC filed on August 29, 2026 against PM Wale has SIPFP’s fingerprints all over it again, this time with MP Manasseh Maelanga as scapegoat.
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