BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC) of the National Parliament of Solomon Islands has officially launched a parliamentary inquiry into the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2026, following the formal adoption of its Terms of Reference on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.
The inquiry stems from an August 27 parliamentary referral under Standing Order 49 according to an official public notice issued by the National Parliament.
The draft legislation seeks to alter the Citizenship Act 2018 by introducing an additional legal ground to revoke the status of individuals who obtained their Solomon Islands citizenship through the application process.
The committee’s probe will thoroughly evaluate whether the proposed law is necessary and effective in safeguarding national security and public order without compromising constitutional rights.
Parliament’s notice highlights that the review will look closely at democratic safeguards for lawful political expression, measures to prevent individuals from being left stateless, and the overall fairness of the revocation procedures.
Additionally, lawmakers plan to scrutinise the independent capacity of the Citizenship Commission and examine why the new revocation powers specifically target citizens by application rather than the broader population.
The committee clarified that its mandate is strictly limited to review the legislative framework and its administrative implications. Consequently, it will not investigate the citizenship status or personal conduct of any identifiable individual, nor will it consider matters currently active before a court of law.
To assist its inquiry, the committee is inviting public submissions and will gather evidence from the Attorney-General’s Chambers, law enforcement, immigration authorities, and the Ministry of Finance and Treasury.
While the upcoming committee hearings will ordinarily be open to the public, the parliamentary body maintains the authority to hold private, in-camera sessions when necessary to protect national security or the public interest.
The committee is legally required to finalise its findings and submit its comprehensive report, including any recommended technical amendments, to the National Parliament by Friday, November 13, 2026.
For feedback, contact: jhouanihau24@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
PM Matthew Wale mourns MPs William Bradford Marau and David Gina, who died within days of each other. Prime Minister Matthew Wale has expressed profound sadness following the passing of two leaders of the Government for Reform, Empowerment, Accountability and Transformation (GREAT) Coalition within the space of just a few days. Prime Minister Wale said [...]
The post PM WALE: A GREAT LOSS TO GOVERNMENT AND THE NATION appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE Ministry of Home Affairs is conducting consultations on the proposed National Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) Policy that aims to guide and regulate the operations of NGOs and civil society organisations in Solomon Islands.
The consultation in Gizo, Western Province, brought together representatives from the provincial government, church organisations, community leaders and other stakeholders to share their views on the proposed policy.
Director of the Civil Affairs Division within the Ministry of Home Affairs, William Misibini, told Island Sun that an NGO Task Force comprising representatives from different government ministries is in Gizo to seek public opinions on the policy.
He said the consultation aims to develop a national framework that will guide and safeguard the operations of NGOs, civil society organisations (CSOs) and other civil society groups in the country.
“At the moment, we don’t have such a policy, so currently, it is like the government and NGOs are walking on different paths.
“So, this policy will help the government and NGOs to work hand in hand to move this country forward,” Misibini said.
He said the proposed policy will also form part of the process towards establishing legislation to govern the NGO sector in Solomon Islands.
Misibini explained that consultations will be conducted in provinces where a significant number of NGOs, community-based associations and church-based organisations are registered and operating.
He said Western Province was selected as the first province for the consultation because of the large number of NGOs operating in the province.
“Following the Gizo consultation, the task force is expected to continue consultations in Malaita Province and Honiara to gather further views from stakeholders,” Misibini said.
He said the consultation process is important to ensure that the proposed policy reflects the views and experiences of organisations working at the community level.
Misibini said the proposed policy will be submitted to the government for further deliberations before being vetted by the Office of the Attorney-General once the consultations are completed.
The policy is expected to provide a foundation to strengthen cooperation between the government and NGOs, while establishing a clearer framework for the sector’s operations in Solomon Islands.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
For feedback, contact: maetuana777@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY TONY IROGA
The National Parliament of Solomon Islands is in deep mourning following the sudden passing of Deputy Speaker and Member of Parliament for South New Georgia, Rendova, and Tetepare, Mr. David Gina.
Mr Gina passed away today at the National Referral Hospital.
In an official statement released today, Speaker of Parliament Mr. Patteson John Oti speaking on behalf of all members and staff of the National Parliament, expressed profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the late leader’s wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, and constituents.
“The passing of the late David Gina is a great loss to the National Parliament and the people of Solomon Islands,” Oti said.
Oti said late Gina served the House in a position of significant responsibility, supporting the Speaker in the conduct of parliamentary proceedings and upholding the procedures and traditions of Parliament.
The Speaker highlighted Mr Gina’s extensive public service career, which spanned both provincial and national leadership levels.
“Prior to entering national politics, he served as Premier of the Western Provincial Government and held ministerial responsibilities as Minister for Rural Development,” Oti said.
Late Gina was elected to the 12th Parliament following the 2024 National General Election, where he carried the mandate of representing the people of South New Georgia, Rendova, and Tetepare.
“His contribution to parliamentary service and public leadership will be remembered with respect and appreciation,” Oti said.
Oti also encouraged grieving family members, colleagues, and constituents to draw strength from the lasting memories of his life and service.
The National Parliament has offered its continued thoughts and prayers for comfort and strength to the family and the people of his constituency during this difficult period of bereavement.
Photo credit: NPSI
For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
作者:托尼·伊罗加
所罗门群岛国会在副议长及南新乔治亚、伦多瓦和特特帕雷地区的国会议员大卫·吉纳(Mr. David Gina)突然去世后深感悲痛。
吉纳今天在国家转诊医院去世。
在今天发布的官方声明中,国会议长帕特森·约翰·奥提(Mr. Patteson John Oti)代表所有国会议员和工作人员,表达了深切的哀悼,并向已故领导者的妻子、孩子、孙子、大家庭和选民致以诚挚的慰问。
“已故大卫·吉纳的去世对国会和所罗门群岛人民来说是巨大的损失。”奥提说。
奥提表示,已故吉纳在国会中担任重要职务,支持议长进行国会程序,并维护国会的程序和传统。
议长强调了吉纳广泛的公共服务生涯,涵盖省级和国家级领导。
“在进入国家政治之前,他曾担任西部省政府的省长,并担任农村发展部长。”奥提说。
已故吉纳在2024年全国大选后当选为第12届国会议员,代表南新乔治亚、伦多瓦和特特帕雷地区的人民。
“他对国会服务和公共领导的贡献将被铭记和尊重。”奥提说。
奥提还鼓励悲痛的家属、同事和选民从他生活和服务的美好回忆中汲取力量。
国会在这个艰难的哀悼时期,向他的家人和选区人民表达了持续的思念和祈祷。
照片来源:NPSI
反馈请联系:tonyiroga8@gmail.com
编辑:irwin3angiki@gmail.com
Island SunPolitics & Government政治与政府·2026-10-15Original ↗原文 ↗
Solomon Islands has lost another sitting Member of Parliament following the death of South New Georgia, Rendova and Tetepare MP David Gina this morning. Gina, 65, died at the National Referral Hospital, where he was admitted yesterday after suffering a stroke, according to doctors. His death comes five days after...
The post Solomons Loses Second MP in Five Days appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY TONY IROGA
Members of the Opposition and Independent groups gathered alongside fellow parliamentarians at the Paul Tovua Complex yesterday to unpack proposed changes to the country’s voting laws during a high-level Electoral Reform Workshop.
A statement from the Opposition Group today said the session is part of a broader, ongoing legislative overhaul spearheaded by the Electoral Reform Taskforce and the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC).
The statement said the initiative aims to tighten loopholes, modernise the nation’s electoral framework, and guarantee smoother, fairer elections.
At the heart of Wednesday’s discussions was a thorough review of Section 4 of the Electoral Act 2018, which legally defines what it means to be “ordinarily resident” for voting purposes.
Lawmakers and electoral experts scrutinised existing provisions to draft amendments that will remove ambiguity and strengthen how residency requirements are enforced.
The statement said that this will bring clarity to residency definitions which is vital to maintain the integrity of voter rolls and ensure that every vote cast is properly registered to the correct constituency.
The taskforce is expected to compile feedback from the parliamentary workshop as it finalises its reform recommendations for legislative review.
Photo: Supplied
For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
Dick Stanley Pirione is sworn in as Solomon Islands Ombudsman, succeeding the late Fred Fakarii and overseeing public accountabilit A new Ombudsman for Solomon Islands was sworn in to office this morning at Government House. Mr Dick Stanley Pirione took his Oaths of Office and Allegiance before His Excellency the Governor General, Sir David Tiva [...]
The post Dick Stanley Pirione Sworn In as New Solomon Islands Ombudsman appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
迪克·斯坦利·皮里昂(Dick Stanley Pirione)今天早上在政府大厦宣誓就任所罗门群岛监察专员,接替已故的弗雷德·法卡里(Fred Fakarii),负责监督公共问责制。皮里昂先生在大卫·蒂瓦爵士(Sir David Tiva)总督面前宣誓就职和效忠。
该文章的首发来自Tavuli News(所罗门群岛)。
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Isabel Provincial Government is actively seeking public feedback on a groundbreaking proposal to completely prohibit the sale and consumption of alcohol across the entire province by 2027.
The initiative became a major talking point after an official provincial notice regarding the proposed total alcohol ban quickly went viral on social media. The correspondence, originally dated October 7, 2026, sparked widespread debate and speculation among citizens online.
Clarifying the administration’s stance, Isabel Provincial Secretary John Mark Lokumana, speaking to the Island Sun, Mr Lokumana confirmed that the measure is currently an “opinion proposal” designed to gauge public sentiment.
He strongly emphasized that no formal legislation or official mandate has been presented to or passed by the Isabel Provincial Assembly yet.
“It is just a proposed planning from the Isabel Provincial Government to totally ban alcohol by the whole of next year 2027, but only if it is possible,” PS Mr. Lokumana stated.
He explained that the executive body distributed the consultation forms to local villages specifically to gather the consent, thoughts, and minds of community members before taking any binding legal steps.
Addressing the online leak, Mr. Lokumana revealed an administrative mishap, noting that letter of notice was written by the province for him official sign it, unfortunately, another individual signed on his behalf.
Moving forward, the provincial executive will carefully analyse the feedback collected from rural and urban communities. This grassroots data will ultimately determine if the petition commands enough public support to be drafted into a formal provincial ordinance.
[Photo: Isabel Provincial Secretary, John Mark Lokumana. Photo: SIG]
BY TONY IROGA
The Office of the Opposition has expressed deep sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences following the passing of the late William Bradford Marau, member of Parliament for Ulawa/Ugi Constituency.
In an official statement yesterday, Leader of Opposition Manasseh Sogavare paid tribute to the late MP’s extensive contributions to national politics and his home community.
“On behalf of the Official Opposition, I extend our deepest condolences to the family of the late Mr. William Bradford Marau and to the people of Ulawa/Ugi on his passing,” Sogavare said.
Highlighting a distinguished career in public service, the Opposition said that the late Marau served in the National Parliament for three consecutive terms starting in 2014.
“During his tenure, he held several key ministerial portfolios, including Minister for Justice and Legal Affairs, Minister for Lands, Housing and Survey, and Minister for Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration.
“Beyond his national parliamentary duties, Marau was widely respected as a traditional chief and community leader on Ulawa Island.
“His years of public service reflected his contribution to the people he represented and to our nation,” the statement said, adding that his passing is a profound loss to his wife, children, extended family, and all who worked alongside him.
Offering words of comfort during this time of mourning, the Opposition referenced scripture: “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” Philippians 4:7.
“May God give his family and all those mourning his passing strength and comfort during this difficult time.
May the soul of the late Mr. William Bradford Marau rest in eternal peace,” the Opposition said.
[Late William Bradford Marau, MP for Ulawa/Ugi Constituency. Photo supplied]
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
WESTERN Province is expecting to welcome a new Provincial Secretary later this month, following a vacancy in the province’s top administrative position since the passing of former Provincial Secretary late Patrick Toiraena earlier this year.
Premier of Western Province, Billy Veo, made the announcement when he spoke to the media last week, expressing confidence that the appointment would be confirmed this month.
Veo said the absence of a Provincial Secretary had affected the province’s ability to advance some of its planned activities and development priorities.
“We have lots of work to do but sadly we cannot carry some of the plans because we are without a Provincial Secretary.
“I’m certain that our Provincial Secretary will be appointed and start working later this month,” he said.
Veo said the position has remained vacant following the passing of Toiraena, whose death created a significant gap in the province’s administrative leadership.
He said the Provincial Secretary plays a key role in coordinating the provincial administration, implementing government policies and ensuring development programmes are carried out effectively.
Veo’s announcement has raised expectations that the appointment of a new Provincial Secretary will help strengthen the provincial administration and enable the government to progress with its outstanding plans and priorities.
The province is now awaiting the formal announcement of the appointment, which is expected to provide renewed administrative leadership for Western Province.
For feedback, contact: maetuana777@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
BY TONY IROGA
The Solomon Islands Government has expressed profound sadness over the passing of the late Mr. William Bradford Marau, describing his death as a significant loss for the country, his constituency, and his family.
In an official statement released yesterday, the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Government and the people of Solomon Islands to the family, relatives, friends, and the people of Ulawa/Ugi.
The late Marau passed away following a prolonged illness. Throughout his tenure, he was recognised for his dedicated service to the nation, representing the people of Ulawa/Ugi in Parliament with dignity and commitment.
His contribution to national leadership included holding several key ministerial portfolios, serving as the Minister for Justice and Legal Affairs, Minister for Lands, Housing, and Survey, and Minister for Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration.
“The passing of Mr. Marau is a great loss to his family, his constituency, and our nation.
“Having battled a prolonged illness, his passing is a loss of a life dedicated to public service and the representation of his people. His dedication to representing his people and his years of service to our country reflect the important responsibility entrusted to those called to serve in public office,” OPMC said.
The Government said his legacy of national leadership and public administration will be long remembered by those he served alongside.
As the constituency of Ulawa/Ugi and the wider nation mourn his passing, the Government offered words of comfort to his grieving loved ones.
“At this difficult time, the Government joins the people of Ulawa/Ugi in mourning the loss of a great leader.
“May they find strength, comfort, and peace in the support of their loved ones and communities during this time of grief. May the soul of the late Mr. William Bradford Marau rest in eternal peace.”
Photo credit: OPMC
For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com
Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
Prime Minister Matthew Cooper Wale has expressed condolences on behalf of the government and people of Solomon Islands following the passing of former Cabinet Minister and current Member of Parliament for Ulawa/Ugi, Honourable William Bradford Marau. Late Marau passed away today after battling a prolonged illness. In an official condolence...
The post Prime Minister Wale Expresses Deep Sadness Over Passing of Ulawa/ Ugi MP William Bradford Marau appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
总理马修·库珀·瓦尔(Matthew Cooper Wale)代表所罗门群岛政府和人民对前内阁部长、现任乌拉瓦/乌吉国会议员威廉·布拉德福德·马劳(Honourable William Bradford Marau)的去世表示哀悼。马劳于今日因长期疾病去世。在一份正式的哀悼中......
该帖子《总理瓦尔对乌拉瓦/乌吉国会议员威廉·布拉德福德·马劳的去世表示深切哀悼》最初出现在《深入所罗门》(In-depth Solomons)上。
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Prime Minister Matthew Wale officially welcomed Member of Parliament for South Guadalcanal Constituency Rollen Seleso for joining the GREAT Coalition government.
Prime Minister Wale welcomed MP Seleso this morning at the Office of the Prime Minister & Cabinet, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to delivering its core policy priorities, a statement from Prime Minister’s Office said.
Mr Seleso’s addition now strengthens the ruling government’s parliamentary majority to 33 seats.
“I welcome Hon. Seleso to the GREAT Coalition,” Prime Minister Wale stated. “I look forward to his contributions to Caucus and to serving the government and our people.”
The addition of the South Guadalcanal MP strengthens the government’s numbers in parliament as it pushes forward with its legislative agenda.
Pledging his full support to the coalition’s leadership and platform, Mr. Seleso emphasized his alignment with the government’s vision for national reform and transformation.
[Prime Minister Wale welcomes South Guadalcanal MP Rollen Seleso at PMO today.Photo credit- PMO]
The Solomon Islands Immigration Division says it has briefed the Diplomatic Corps in Honiara on the Government's new Border Management System, e-Visa regime and online payment gateway.
BY TONY IROGA
The Matangi Ward seven (7) Provincial Assembly By-Election in Rennell and Bellona Province has ended in a rare deadlock after the top two contenders finished with an exact tie in votes, election officials confirmed.
Counting for the crucial local seat officially kicked off at 5:30pm yesterday, 7th October, at Bagani Kindy on Bellona Island.
In an official announcement yesterday, the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) officially verified the unprecedented outcome.
Following the tallying of votes in the presence of candidate agents and electoral officials, frontrunners Richard Tepuke Sanga and Artise Angikitonu Tebai Pugeva were left neck-and-neck with 51 votes each.
Candidate Chris Tonumatangi Tonga finished third with 39 votes out of a total 141 ballots cast, with zero rejected ballots recorded.
Due to the identical numbers at the top, electoral authorities were forced to conduct an immediate recount on-site. However, the secondary tally confirmed the initial standstill.
“The Returning Officer conducted a recount as required under the electoral law,” the SIEC stated in its official declaration. “The recount confirmed the original result, with Richard Tepuke Sanga and Artise Angikitonu Tebai Pugeva remaining tied at 51 votes each.”
The Commission stressed that no victor has been determined at this stage.
“At this stage, there is no winner or loser, and no candidate has yet been declared elected,” the SIEC confirmed.
The SIEC said the next step will be carried out in accordance with the applicable electoral law and regulations. The Solomon Islands Electoral Commission will formally inform the candidates and the public of the next process.
The electoral body also extended its gratitude to the local community and key personnel involved for maintaining order throughout the voting process.
“The Commission thanks all candidates, candidates’ agents, electoral officials, security personnel and the people of Matangi Ward for their cooperation and peaceful participation throughout the by-election,” the statement said.
SIEC confirmed that they will meet today to determine the next steps following the tie in votes.
[Election pictures of yesterday’s Matangi ward by election. photo- SIEC.]
By Joy Ofasia
The Solomon Islands Government says its recent participation at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen bilateral relationships, advance key agreements, and promote issues of national interest on the global stage.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Rick Houenipwela, highlighted the significance of the government’s bilateral engagements during the Prime Minister’s post-UNGA press conference.
Minister Houenipwela said the UNGA brings together leaders and representatives from countries around the world, creating a unique platform for the Solomon Islands to engage directly with international partners without the need for extensive travel.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Rick Houenipwela
According to the Minister, the government took advantage of the gathering to hold a number of bilateral meetings and discussions, including the signing of bilateral agreements with Ghana and Guinea.
“Every country in the whole world is represented at the UNGA,” he said. “It provides an important opportunity to meet with different countries and follow up on areas of mutual interest.”
He emphasized that the work undertaken during the UNGA would continue beyond the event itself, with follow-up actions required on various issues, agreements, and discussions held with international partners.
The Minister said that following the UNGA, the Prime Minister would assign relevant officials to pursue the matters discussed and ensure progress on commitments and areas of cooperation.
Prime Minister Matthew Wale
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Matthew Wale said the Solomon Islands’ presence at the UNGA was in itself a significant outcome, as it enabled the country to make its voice heard on matters affecting the nation and the Pacific region.
The Prime Minister said participation in the global forum also allowed the government to engage in bilateral discussions with countries of interest across a range of sectors and policy areas.
“The UNGA was to go and make our voice heard on the issues of concern to us,” Mr. Wale said.
He added that the Solomon Islands had successfully achieved that objective through its active participation and engagements during the assembly.
Both the Prime Minister and the Foreign Affairs Minister stressed that the value of attending the UNGA extends well beyond speeches and public appearances. They noted that bilateral engagements, relationship-building, and the follow-up actions arising from those discussions are critical components of the government’s international diplomacy efforts.