Prime Minister Press Secretary, Alfred Sasako confirmed to Solomon Star that Mr Dettke is relieved from his ministerial duty.
"I can confirm that the matter of relieving Bodo Dettke of his official duties as Minister of Forest was discussed at Caucus today (yesterday).
“Caucus discussion resulted in the Hon Dettke being relieved of his duties.
“The question as to who will replace him is being sorted out formally and an announcement would be made at the appropriate time. I can't speculate on that right now," he said.
Mr Bodo had made a controversial decision to seize MV Pacific Banghu which carried 18,000 cubic metres of round logs at Noro Port, Western Province in October.
But the Magistrate has over-ruled the controversial ministerial order and allowed the ship to continue its destination to Asia.
The decision was alleged to be a personal one against the company that was made on the shipment.
Mr Dettke is a logger himself who owns the Success Company Limited.
Success Company was also ordered by the High Court on Friday to halt its operations on Kolombangara.
Mr Sasako believes the sacking is related to these Forestry issues.
"I was not briefed on the reasons behind his sacking.
"I am not sure whether this remain the same reasons, whatever it is, it start from those particular issues," he said.
Mr Sasako said there were differences in opinions on how the issues were handled.
"I think this contributed to what's being happening.
"You will know at the appropriate time when the formal statement detailing the reasons removal of Hon Dettke will be made by the Government," he said.
Mr Sasako said like every situation that happened in the past, Mr Dettke is still welcomed to remain with the Government.
"But if he wants to move from the Government, it's an individual decision he has to make," he said.
Mr Dettke was not available to comment but Solomon Star understands he is currently in overseas when the decision reached consensus.
Reports received by Solomon Star said there are three names from Opposition floating around to replace Mr Dettke.
However, it is still unclear when Mr Dettke will remain with the Government or defect to Opposition camp.
But if he crosses over to other side, who will follow him?
This is the question that still remain unanswered.
Mr Bodo was elected at the recent national election as member for North West Guadalcanal.
He replaced former MP Siriako Usa.
Mr Dettke owns big business in Honiara and operates a logging company.
The Opposition side is believed to have been informed and are now aware of the news about sacking after the decision was reached yesterday.
By EDDIE OSIFELO
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
