FEMALE cloth vendors in Auki, Malaita Province have raised serious concerns over the increasing number of people consuming alcohol in public spaces within the town.
The women said, it has become common to witness both young and older individuals openly drinking in public areas, creating discomfort and fear among residents, particularly women and children.
A female vendor, who spoke to this paper on the condition of anonymity, said public drinking is becoming a growing problem in Auki.
“It’s worrying to see our public spaces turning into open bars. Young people, in particular, seem to think it’s acceptable to drink in public. It’s unsafe and unsettling,” she said.
The vendor also highlighted another concern that individuals strolling and asking passersby for money, usually in small amounts like $2.
“This behaviour is intimidating, especially for women who just want to go about their business in a peaceful environment.
“It creates a sense of insecurity,” she added.
She pointed to the recent killing of a young man from Makira-Ulawa Province in Honiara as an example of the broader consequences of poor law enforcement.
“The police need to step up their presence and patrol the streets regularly. Public drinking should not be tolerated,” she said.
“As a cloth vendor and a mother, I see this happening almost every day. It’s becoming a norm, and that’s dangerous.
“Its also risky for women and children,” she added.
The woman also called on the Malaita Provincial Government to regulate the issuing of liquor licenses in Auki, suggesting that the spread of bottle shops may be contributing to the problem.
“The increase in liquor outlets is likely encouraging more public drinking and disorder. There needs to be better control and oversight,” she said.
The vendors hope that provincial government and police will take swift action to address the issue and restore a safe, family-friendly atmosphere in Auki.
The easy access to home-made beer like kwaso is also contributing to the problem.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
