A Chief from Luaniua village, Malaita Outer Islands (MOI) has described the call by Hugo Viauli to take action against Asian buyers in an article published in the paper over the weekend as ‘misleading.’
In a statement issued over the weekend Chief Bartholomew Kokolopu said, the claim that the House of Chiefs is urging authorities to take action against Asian buyers is misleading and misrepresents the true situation of their community.
This is because at the moment there is a legal case to find out who is the rightful Party to rule Luaniua village.
Kokolopu said, Mr. Viauli has no right to claim that he represents the House of Chiefs of Luaniua.
“The legitimate chieftaincy of Luaniua Village belongs to the Uila tribe, whom I represent.”
He said, at the moment there is a case in the court to determine the rightful chiefs to govern Luaniua village.
Not only that but there is a case order last year which prohibits Mr. Viauli and his Party from engaging in any chiefly roles until the court decides.
“We currently have a court case pending before the High Court to determine the rightful chiefs to govern Luaniua village.
“Additionally, there is a court order dated 26 March 2024 which prohibits Mr. Viauli and his party from undertaking any chieftaincy roles in Luaniua until further orders from the court.”
Chief Kokolopu added, at the moment, there is no recognized House of Chiefs in Luaniua Village. Mr. Viauli and his associates have no authority to demand the removal of the Asian buyers or take any actions on behalf of the village.
Therefore, he strongly urged Mr. Viauli to refrain from making such baseless claims.
“Because this only misleads the public and undermine the governance and harmony of our community.”
Chief Kokolopu warned that if he continues then they will apply to the court for further legal orders.
“Should he continues to assert that he is the House of Chiefs of Luaniua Village, we will be forced to file an application for contempt of court.”
He also advised the media to also respect the court order.
