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 Manasseh Maelanga, has withdrawn the motion.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 [...]
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GREAT Coalition orders closure of non-compliant sufferance wharves to protect revenue, strengthen border and maritime security. Ministry of Finance and Treasury has directed the immediate cessation of all import operations at sufferance wharves across the country that are not compliant with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. The directive, issued by Minister [...]
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Government cracks down on security gaps to protect revenue and tighten borders The Ministry of Finance and Treasury has ordered...
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BY NED GAGAHE
THE Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants (ISIA) is set to host its third annual Congress next week, with a focus on strengthening the capability of the country’s accounting and finance workforce.
The ISIA Annual Congress 2026 will be held on September 17 and 18 at Heritage Park Hotel under the theme, “Beyond Qualifications: Building a Workforce That Thinks, Leads and Creates.”
The theme reflects the changing demands placed on accountants and finance professionals, who are increasingly expected to go beyond financial reporting, compliance and accounting.
The profession now requires practitioners to understand technology, interpret data, manage risk, support good governance, communicate effectively with decision-makers and contribute to the strategic direction of organisations.
The two-day Congress will therefore cover a broad range of issues, including economic development, public financial management, accounting standards, digital transformation, workforce capability, governance, financial reporting and transparency, sustainability and the future of the accounting profession.
The event will also feature regional perspectives from professional and standards-setting organisations, including the Australian Accounting Standards Board and the Institute of Public Accountants.
ISIA chief executive officer Pamela Naesol said the Congress remains the flagship event of the Institute and provides an important platform for the accounting profession to engage with business, industry and Government leaders.
“This is where we hold important conversations around matters affecting the accounting profession and how the profession can work effectively with the Government and private sector to strengthen financial management systems of the country,” she said.
Ms Naesol said the finance and accounting function was central to how organisations plan, manage risk, report performance and make decisions.
She stressed that investment in the professional development of accountants was necessary to build an effective workforce capable of leading local organisations.
The Congress will provide Solomon Islands professionals with an opportunity to access regional expertise and contemporary thinking while remaining in the country.
Registration and programme information are available through the ISIA website.
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BY NED GAGAHE
MINISTER of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Rick Houenipwela has welcomed United States Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau following his arrival in Honiara last night.
Deputy Secretary Landau is visiting Solomon Islands as part of an official Pacific tour from August 31 to September 11, a statement from Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade said.
His regional tour includes visits to Palau for the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting, the Federated States of Micronesia, Solomon Islands and Kiribati.
During his time in Honiara, Landau is expected to meet with senior government representatives and business leaders.
The discussions are expected to focus on strengthening economic and security cooperation between Solomon Islands and the United States.
His visit comes amid growing engagement between Honiara and Washington and provides an opportunity for both countries to advance areas of mutual interest.
The United States has increased its engagement with Pacific Island countries in recent years, with economic development, security and regional cooperation remaining key areas of interest.
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by Georgina Maka’a Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) leaders said climate change remains the biggest threat to the safety and lives...
The post Pacific leaders reaffirm climate change as greatest threat at Palau summit appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
Hosts carry confidence into Sunday showdown with defending champions New Zealand
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands will carry renewed confidence into Sunday’s OFC U-16 Women’s Championship opener, but face an immediate test against defending champions New Zealand at the National Stadium.
The young hosts go into the tournament on the back of an encouraging victory over the senior women’s national team earlier this week, providing a timely boost ahead of a demanding Group A campaign.
OFC Media reported following yesterday afternoon’s pre-tournament media conference at the Coral Sea Resort and Casino that head coach Kanto Yamashita believes playing at home can give his players an advantage, particularly through their familiarity with the local conditions.
“We train in this environment every day, so we know the pitches, the climate and conditions very well,” Yamashita said.
However, the Japanese coach also recognises the pressure that comes with playing a major regional tournament on home soil.
“At the same time, playing at home also means carrying greater experience and pressure,” he said.
That pressure will be put to the test from the outset, with New Zealand awaiting the hosts in the opening match at 7pm on Sunday.
New Zealand enters the competition as defending champions, although head coach Alana Gunn stressed that the current squad represents a new cycle.
“We have a new team and a new cycle,” Gunn said.
For Solomon Islands, the challenge continues after Sunday’s opener.
They face Cook Islands in their second Group A match on Wednesday, September 9, at 7pm, before completing the group stage against Fiji on Saturday, September 12, also at 7pm.
The top two sides from Group A will advance to the semi-finals.
Despite the confidence gained from beating the senior side, Yamashita said his players must remain grounded and remember their position as challengers.
“We have gained a lot of confidence from this result. We will never forget that we are still the challengers,” he said.
“We will approach this tournament with confidence, but also with humility and hunger.”
His message reflects the wider purpose of the championship, which provides a valuable international development platform for Oceania’s emerging women’s footballers.
Coaches from across the competition also highlighted player development and international exposure as key priorities.
For the Solomon Islands girls, however, attention now turns to Sunday night and the opening whistle.
A strong result against the defending champions would give the hosts an ideal start before they face Cook Islands and Fiji in their remaining group matches.
The OFC U-16 Women’s Championship runs from September 6-19 in Honiara, with eight nations competing and the tournament providing a pathway towards the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2027 in Morocco.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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BY JOSES SAREN
A motion of no-confidence in Prime Minister Matthew Wale is scheduled to be moved when Parliament meets on Monday, September 7.
The motion, listed as Motion No. 25 on the National Parliament’s Provisional Order Paper No. 91, is to be moved by East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga.
According to the order paper issued by the National Parliament for Monday’s sitting, the motion states: “That Parliament resolves that it has no confidence in the Prime Minister.”
The motion is one of three listed for consideration when the 12th Parliament resumes at 9:30am on Monday.
Also listed is a motion on a resolution under Section 103(1) of the Constitution, to be moved by Minister for Finance and Treasury Rexon Ramofafia.
According to the order paper, the resolution seeks to empower the Finance Minister to authorise withdrawals from the Consolidated Fund to meet expenditure necessary to maintain public services at no more than the level provided in the previous financial year.
The authority will apply until four months after the beginning of financial year 2027 or until the Appropriation Act 2027 comes into operation, whichever occurs first.
A third motion, listed as Motion No. 27, is the motion for the meeting to be concluded and Parliament adjourned sine-die.
The order paper states that the Prime Minister is to move that the present meeting be concluded at the adjournment on Monday and that Parliament then stand adjourned sine-die.
The sitting will also include the presentation of several parliamentary papers and reports, including a special audit of the procurement activity for the Solomon Islands Pacific Games 2023.
The documents were listed for presentation by Speaker Patteson Oti and Prime Minister Wale.
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-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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The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) has detained an Australian national following a threatening incident involving an alleged firearm...
The post RSIPF arrest suspect following threatening weapon incident in Honiara appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
SIART delivers financial literacy and feed formulation training to strengthen rural farmers and agribusinesses in Malaita. Solomon Islands Agriculture Rural Transformation (SIART) Project continues to deliver vital capacity building trainings that will be beneficial for local farmers in the provinces. From Wednesday 26 to 28 August 2026, a team from SIART was in Auki, Malaita [...]
The post SIART Training Strengthens Rural Farmers in Malaita appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Solomon Islands children deliver climate solutions to Government, calling for action on resilience, funding and climate justice. After two intensive days of visual storytelling and grassroots policy dialogue, child representatives from across the Solomon Islands made their voices impossible to ignore. Convening for Klaemet Tok Stori from Pikinini (1–2 September 2026), 23 child delegates from [...]
The post Solomon Islands Children Deliver Climate Solutions at COP31 appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
所罗门群岛的儿童向政府提出气候解决方案,呼吁在韧性、资金和气候正义方面采取行动。在经过两天紧张的视觉叙事和基层政策对话后,来自所罗门群岛各地的儿童代表们使他们的声音无法被忽视。23名儿童代表于2026年9月1日至2日召开了“儿童气候对话”(Klaemet Tok Stori from Pikinini)......
这篇文章最初发布在Tavuli News(所罗门群岛)上。
Captain’s treble sends Solomon Islands into U-19 semi-finals
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
SOLOMON Islands U-19 captain Jayroll Patty produced a match-winning performance today, scoring a hat-trick to fire his side to a 3-1 victory over New Caledonia and secure a place in the semi-finals of the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Samoa.
Patty struck three times at the Samoa Football HQ in Apia, scoring in the 36th, 45+3rd and 74th minutes to lead the Solomon Islands to their second consecutive Group A victory.
According to the official OFC match report, New Caledonia were reduced to 10 men in the 18th minute following the dismissal of Kyllian Wiako for violent conduct.
The Solomon Islands captain opened the scoring in the 36th minute after capitalising on a defensive mistake before New Caledonia responded through Jemmanuel Siwoine in the 43rd minute.
But Patty restored the lead deep into first-half stoppage time, sending the Solomon Islands into the break 2-1 ahead.
The skipper completed his hat-trick in the 74th minute to seal a 3-1 victory and confirm the Solomon Islands’ progression to the last four. OFC also reported that the result put the Solomon Islands in control of Group A.
Reflecting on the performance after the match, Patty credited the result to the collective effort of the team.
“Yeah, teamwork, teamwork. Performance was good. We stuck to our game plan,” Patty said.
“The boys, the coaches, Franco... and yeah, good performance, teamwork. We deserved the three points.”
Despite scoring all three goals, Patty was quick to emphasise the contribution of his teammates when asked about his hat-trick.
“Yeah, a hat-trick here is not easy. Teamwork, hard work,” he said.
“Yeah, sharing the ball, and I scored. Yeah, thank you for the hard work.”
The Solomon Islands had entered the match on the back of a 1-0 victory over Papua New Guinea in their opening Group A match, meaning the win over New Caledonia gave them six points from two matches. OFC’s competition information confirms the Solomon Islands opened their campaign with a 1-0 win over PNG.
With the semi-final place secured, Patty said the team will now focus on correcting its mistakes and prepare for the next challenge.
“Yeah, work on mistakes. Mistakes are normal, and yeah, build up for the next game,” he said.
The captain also dedicated the victory to supporters back home, urging them to continue backing the team.
“We won here for Solomon Islands, our beloved country,” Patty said.
“Keep on praying behind the team. We are still on the mission, halfway yet. Thank you so much.”
The Solomon Islands will now turn their attention to their final Group A match against hosts Samoa on September 7, before the semi-finals on September 11.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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BY TONY IROGA
The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) has officially launched its Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) Mainstreaming Strategy 2026–2030.
The strategy was launched today at the MFMR office under the theme “Empowering Inclusive Fisheries in Solomon Islands.”
The launch brought together representatives from the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs, MFMR staff, Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Head of Fisheries Department Dr Kofi Apreku, WorldFish, the New Zealand High Commission, and other key stakeholders.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Fisheries, MFMR Director of Fisheries Edward Honiwala said the launch marks an important milestone in efforts to build a fisheries sector that is sustainable and inclusive.
“Today marks a milestone in our collective journey towards building a fisheries sector that is not only ecologically sustainable, but also socially inclusive, equitable and empowering to all,” Mr Honiwala said.
He said the contributions of women, youth and marginalised groups in the fisheries sector had for too long been undervalued and overlooked.
“Yet, they are the backbone of our communities who work tirelessly in the fisheries sector, with many diverse roles across the fisheries value chain,” he said.
Honiwala said the new strategy demonstrates the ministry’s commitment to ensure that the voices of these groups are heard, their roles are recognised, and their rights respected and protected.
The GEDSI Strategy 2026–2030 replaces the ministry’s previous gender mainstreaming strategy, which was developed more than 10 years ago.
He said the previous strategy mainly focused on inshore fisheries, while the new strategy will expand GEDSI mainstreaming across other areas of the ministry’s work.
“With the development of this strategy, it will now guide MFMR’s ambitions and efforts in mainstreaming GEDSI in the fisheries sector across all key areas of our work,” Honiwala said.
He acknowledged that it had taken several years to develop and launch the strategy, but said the ministry was pleased to finally have a strategic guide to mainstream GEDSI across the fisheries sector.
Honiwala also highlighted that Solomon Islands is among the few Pacific countries to have its own fisheries-focused GEDSI strategy.
“We are proud of that,” he said.
He said the inclusion of persons with disabilities had been an area that was lacking in the fisheries sector.
He said the new strategy will help ensure that marginalised groups have equal rights and opportunities to participate in the management and development of fisheries in Solomon Islands.
“Being inclusive in fisheries is making sure that all voices and contributions in the fisheries sector are heard,” he said.
Honiwala acknowledged line ministries, development partners, donors and technical experts for their contributions to the development of the strategy through technical and financial support.
He calls on partners and donors to continue supporting the implementation of the strategy over the next five years.
“Together we can build a fisheries sector that uplifts every voice, values every contribution and leaves no one behind,” he said.
He also urged all stakeholders to work together towards achieving the strategy’s vision of empowering inclusive fisheries in Solomon Islands.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
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BY BEN BILUA
Jejevo
THE 18th Synod of the Diocese of Ysabel (DOY) has ended successfully following a week of deliberations, discussions and decision-making on the future direction of the Diocese.
The Synod began last Sunday and continued throughout the week at Jejevo, bringing together clergy, church leaders, representatives and partners of the Diocese.
The Synod was chaired by the Bishop of the Diocese of Ysabel, the Right Reverend Christopher Hope Fihu.
In his closing remarks, Bishop Fihu acknowledged the clergies and church leaders for their valuable contributions and inputs throughout the Synod.
He said the discussions and contributions made during the week will play an important role in shaping the Diocese’s future plans, priorities and mission.
Fihu also acknowledged the church partners, including the United Church of Solomon Islands (UCSI) and the Anglican Episcopal Church, for participating in the Synod.
“I also want to thank our partners, the Honiara-based Isabel community, business communities, Island Sun Newspaper and ACOM Communication Unit,” he said.
Fihu also acknowledged the Diocese’s legal team and those who guided him throughout the Synod sessions.
“Our team, thank you for ensuring that the business of the day is taken care of,” he said.
Fihu further extended his appreciation to the communities that contributed food, hospitality and entertainment throughout the week.
Speaking on behalf of the church partners, UCSI Director of Theology and Mission, Reverend Hillary Bero, said participating in the Synod had been an eye-opening experience.
Bero said he had learned many things during his time at the Synod and was honoured to be part of the gathering.
“I came here feeling honoured to be part of this Holy Synod. This is a new experience for me and I learned a lot,” he said.
Bero also commended Bishop Fihu for his leadership and the way the Synod was conducted.
“Mr Chairman, I acknowledge your leadership and know-how during the Synod. The way that the Synod was conducted demonstrates your capability and I salute you for that,” he said.
Bero also assured the Synod that the United Church community in Western Province stands ready to support the LAWELA Region as it prepares to host the 19th Ysabel Diocesan Synod.
The 18th Synod concluded with acknowledgements and expressions of appreciation to all those who contributed to the successful hosting of the week-long gathering.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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BY NED GAGAHE
JOURNALISTS have been reminded that they are bound by tax secrecy and confidentiality laws when they receive information relating to taxpayers.
The warning was made by Hitchen Dauara, Manager of the Legal and Policy Unit within the Inland Revenue Division (IRD) of the Ministry of Finance and Treasury, during a tax secrecy consultation for media representatives today.
The consultation was held today at Heritage Park Hotel from 9am to 11:30am and was attended by journalists from SIBC, Island Sun, Solomon Star, Paoa FM and Sunday Isles, together with representatives from government agencies and businesses.
The session is part of a week-long consultation programme covering Value Added Tax (VAT), tax policy and tax secrecy.
The IRD said the consultation intends to provide journalists with a better understanding of how the tax system works and support accurate and informed reporting on tax-related matters.
Dauara said tax secrecy is an important part of tax administration and helps to protect the integrity of the taxation system.
He said taxpayer confidence is important to voluntary compliance and government revenue collection.
“Tax secrecy has laid the foundation for voluntary compliance because if information starts to go out and taxpayers don’t have confidence in the government, then the government will have difficulty collecting tax,” Dauara said.
He stressed that confidentiality obligations are not limited to IRD officers.
He said anyone who has access to taxpayer information, including authorised government agencies and others handling such information, are bound by the confidentiality provisions.
“Once you access that information, whether through IRD or some other means, you are bound by those confidentiality provisions as well,” he said.
Dauara warns that a person who unlawfully discloses or spreads taxpayer information could face prosecution.
The maximum penalty, he said, is five years’ imprisonment or a fine of around SBD$50,000.
He compared tax information to other sensitive personal information, saying it should be protected from unauthorised disclosure.
“If you go to a hospital for an HIV check-up and somehow people start to publish that information, that is personal information,” he said.
“In the same way, tax information is also confidential, and if you start spreading it, it is an offence under the legislation.”
Media obligations
Dauara said the media also needs to understand that their obligations because confidentiality requirements could apply as soon as taxpayer information comes into their possession.
“As soon as tax information or information from the taxpayer reaches you, that obligation also reaches you,” he said.
He said the obligation is automatic under the legislation and journalists need to understand both their rights and responsibilities.
However, Dauara said tax secrecy does not mean that information could never be made public.
He said certain information could be disclosed under provisions provided for by law, while confidentiality requirements will apply in other circumstances.
Agencies accessing tax information
The consultation also focused on government agencies that have access to taxpayer information.
Dauara said the legislation sets out which agencies and officials are authorised to access tax information, including Customs, the Auditor-General and other authorised bodies.
He said in certain circumstances, officials who handle tax information outside those agencies for purposes such as tax-related prosecutions may be required to sign a confidentiality declaration.
The declaration formally sets out their obligations when handling taxpayer information.
Dauara said the awareness programme provides agencies with an opportunity to understand their obligations, ask questions and seek clarification before accessing tax information.
The IRD said the consultation aims to strengthen understanding of the legal framework governing the confidentiality, handling and disclosure of taxpayer information.
Photo credit: Ned Gagahe
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作者:内德·加加赫
记者们被提醒,在接收与纳税人相关的信息时,他们必须遵守税务保密和保密法律。
这一警告是由财政和财政部(Ministry of Finance and Treasury)税务局(IRD)法律与政策部门经理希琴·道阿拉(Hitchen Dauara)在今天为媒体代表举办的税务保密咨询会上提出的。
此次咨询会于今天上午9点至11点30分在遗产公园酒店(Heritage Park Hotel)举行,参加者包括来自SIBC、Island Sun、Solomon Star、Paoa FM和Sunday Isles的记者,以及来自政府机构和企业的代表。
此次会议是为期一周的咨询项目的一部分,涵盖增值税(VAT)、税务政策和税务保密。
IRD表示,此次咨询旨在帮助记者更好地理解税务系统的运作,并支持对税务相关事务的准确和知情报道。
道阿拉表示,税务保密是税务管理的重要组成部分,有助于保护税收系统的完整性。
他说,纳税人的信心对于自愿遵从和政府收入的征集至关重要。
“税务保密为自愿遵从奠定了基础,因为如果信息开始泄露,纳税人对政府失去信心,那么政府将难以征收税款,”道阿拉说。
他强调,保密义务并不仅限于IRD的工作人员。
他说,任何接触到纳税人信息的人,包括授权的政府机构和处理此类信息的其他人员,都受到保密条款的约束。
“无论是通过IRD还是其他方式,一旦你接触到这些信息,你也受到这些保密条款的约束,”他说。
道阿拉警告说,非法披露或传播纳税人信息的人可能面临起诉。
他说,最高刑罚为五年监禁或约50,000所罗门元的罚款。
他将税务信息与其他敏感个人信息进行了比较,称其应受到保护,防止未经授权的披露。
“如果你去医院进行艾滋病检查,结果被人公开,那是个人信息,”他说。
“同样,税务信息也是保密的,如果你开始传播它,根据法律这是违法的。”
媒体义务
道阿拉表示,媒体也需要理解他们的义务,因为保密要求可能在纳税人信息进入他们的手中时立即生效。
“只要税务信息或来自纳税人的信息到达你那里,这一义务也随之而来,”他说。
他说,这一义务是根据法律自动产生的,记者需要理解他们的权利和责任。
然而,道阿拉表示,税务保密并不意味着信息永远不能公开。
他说,某些信息可以根据法律规定进行披露,而在其他情况下则适用保密要求。
访问税务信息的机构
此次咨询还重点讨论了有权访问纳税人信息的政府机构。
道阿拉表示,法律规定了哪些机构和官员被授权访问税务信息,包括海关、审计长和其他授权机构。
他说,在某些情况下,处理税务信息的官员可能需要签署保密声明,以便在这些机构之外进行与税务相关的起诉等目的。
该声明正式列出了他们在处理纳税人信息时的义务。
道阿拉表示,意识提升项目为各机构提供了了解其义务、提出问题和寻求澄清的机会,以便在访问税务信息之前。
IRD表示,此次咨询旨在加强对 governing the confidentiality, handling and disclosure of taxpayer information 的法律框架的理解。
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Island SunBusiness & Economy商业经济·2026-09-04Original ↗原文 ↗
BY NED GAGAHE
BUSINESSES have been urged to start preparing early for the introduction of a 15 percent Value Added Tax (VAT), with the Inland Revenue Division warning those required to register not to delay their obligations.
Manager of the Legal and Policy Unit at the Inland Revenue Division (IRD), Ministry of Finance and Treasury, Hitchen Dauara, said VAT is scheduled to come into effect on January 1, 2028.
Dauara made the remarks today while speaking to the media following a week-long consultation programme covering VAT, tax policy and tax secrecy.
He said the education programme is being rolled out early to give businesses enough time to understand the new tax system and prepare for its implementation.
“What we want businesses, as well as consumers, to understand is what they need to do to prepare,” Dauara said.
He said businesses should review their pricing structures, accounting systems and annual turnover to determine whether they fall within the mandatory VAT registration threshold.
Dauara warns that businesses required to register but choose not to do so could later be required by IRD to register and account for VAT that should have been collected during the period they were required to register.
He said IRD could return to a business after several months or even years to enforce the registration requirement.
“My advice to anyone who is trying to avoid registration is that you need to consider your cash flow and register during the mandatory registration period,” he said.
Dauara said IRD is currently in Phase One of its VAT education programme and is identifying businesses that are likely to fall within the mandatory registration requirements.
The division is also conducting one-on-one sessions with businesses.
He said the individual sessions are important because businesses operate differently and general information sessions may not adequately address the circumstances of each business.
“We need to tailor the information according to how each business operates,” he said.
Dauara said the consultations will help IRD understand the challenges businesses face and assist them in preparing ahead of the 2028 implementation.
VAT and consumers
Dauara also explained what the introduction of VAT could mean for ordinary consumers.
He said the current tax system includes sales tax, goods tax and stamp duty, with goods tax and sales tax forming part of the cost of many goods and services.
Under VAT, there will be a standard rate of 15 percent, he said.
Dauara said VAT operates differently from the existing taxes because the VAT component is not intended to become a business cost in the same way that goods tax and sales tax can form part of the cost of doing business.
He said market forces, including demand and supply, will also play a role in determining prices.
Dauara stressed that the consultations and education programme aim to ensure that businesses and consumers are not caught unprepared when VAT comes into effect.
“I think waiting until 2027 or just before implementation would be a disaster,” he said.
He said starting the education programme now gives the government enough time to engage businesses, understand how they operate, identify challenges and address confusion before the January 2028 implementation date.
Photo credit: Ned Gagahe
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BY JOSES SAREN
New and continuing students at Solomon Islands National University’s (SINU) School of Business and Tourism have been urged to take their studies seriously and prepare for life beyond university.
Acting Vice Chancellor and Pro Vice Chancellor Corporate Dr William Parairato made the call during the school’s orientation programme at the Kukum Lecture Theatre today, according to a SINU press release.
SINU said Dr Parairato reminded students that university life is different from secondary school and requires greater independence, discipline, responsibility, critical thinking and commitment to learning.
He encouraged them to see their education as more than simply obtaining a qualification, saying university should also prepare them for professional careers and leadership while developing them as responsible citizens and entrepreneurs.
He stressed that the School of Business and Tourism has an important role in the country’s development through fields including business, accounting, entrepreneurship, management and tourism.
“These areas contribute directly to economic development, employment creation and improved organisational performance,” he said.
Dr Parairato also challenged students to look beyond passing examinations, stressing the need for graduates to identify problems, develop solutions, communicate effectively, work with others, demonstrate integrity and create opportunities.
“Solomon Islands needs graduates who can do more than pass examinations,” he said.
Students were also encouraged to attend classes regularly, read widely, ask questions and participate actively in discussions while making full use of the university’s library and other learning resources.
He said taking responsibility for their own learning is particularly important and encouraged students to develop good relationships with lecturers and fellow students.
“Above all, take responsibility for your own learning,” he said.
On the role of academic staff, SINU said Dr Parairato stressed the importance of providing students with support and guidance throughout their studies.
“Orientation is the beginning of a relationship between the faculty and its students. Let us ensure that our students feel welcomed, supported and challenged to achieve their full potential,” he said.
Dr Parairato also called for stronger links between the School of Business and Tourism and the business community, government agencies, the tourism industry, multilateral institutions and other stakeholders.
He said SINU programmes should continue to be reviewed and strengthened to remain relevant to the changing needs of Solomon Islands and the wider Pacific.
Dr Parairato left students with three key messages which are: to take their studies seriously, develop strong character and professional values, and think beyond graduation about how their knowledge and skills could contribute to Solomon Islands.
He also reminded students that academic achievement could create opportunities, but employers are looking for people they could trust.
Dr Parairato concluded by commending the School of Business and Tourism for organising the orientation and thanked Dean Associate Professor Elliot Mugamu and staff for hosting the programme and inviting him to participate.
Photo credit: SINU
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BY JOSES SAREN
New fuel prices have taken effect in Honiara, with petrol, diesel and kerosene now retailing at new rates from September 1.
The new prices are $11.1771 per litre for petrol, $13.4759 for diesel and $14.2583 for kerosene, according to the latest wholesale price schedule.
The schedule, headed “Wholesale Price Effective 01.09.2026”, lists the new prices for Honiara service stations.
For bulk purchases, petrol is priced at $10.4271 per litre, while diesel is $12.7259 and kerosene $11.8819.
The schedule also provides refill prices for 200-litre drums, including GST, at $2,135.42 for petrol, $2,595.17 for diesel and $2,426.37 for kerosene.
A 200-litre refill with a new drum is listed at $2,885.42 for petrol, $3,345.17 for diesel and $3,176.37 for kerosene.
Empty drums are charged at $800, but customers will receive a $750 credit if the drum is returned in good condition.
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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 .
BY LESLEY FOINAGWA
Malaria elimination in Malaita Province requires a whole-of-province approach involving the government, health authorities, communities, schools, churches, businesses, landowners and development partners.
The approach is in line with Solomon Islands’ National Roadmap for Malaria Elimination 2026–2040, which aims to eliminate malaria by 2038 through whole-of-government and whole-of-society action.
A proposed “Healthy Malaita” approach focuses on keeping communities clean by clearing stagnant water, blocked drains, rubbish and other mosquito-breeding areas.
Households are also encouraged to properly use insecticide-treated mosquito nets, while targeted spraying should be carried out in areas identified by health authorities.
Another key focus is “Test, Treat and Track”, ensuring suspected cases are tested quickly, confirmed cases receive proper treatment, and health workers follow up cases in surrounding communities.
The proposal also recommends ward-level malaria monitoring, with schools playing an important role in awareness, environmental clean-ups and early referral of sick students.
Community malaria committees could also be established in high-risk wards to support prevention, awareness and monitoring alongside professional health workers.
The proposed vision is: “Healthy Malaita, Malaria-Free Malaita: Every Ward, Every Community, Every Household.”
The five key pillars are to stop mosquitoes, find infections, treat every case, track every case and mobilise communities.
The initiative calls on all sectors and communities in Malaita to work together towards zero indigenous malaria transmission and a healthier, malaria-free province.
