The Correctional Service Solomon Islands (CSSI) has successfully concluded a two-day Legislative Review Forum with key stakeholders, including government ministries, donor partners, and program providers.
The forum, held on 6–7 May 2025 at the Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara, led by Legal Consultant Mrs. Joanna Kenilorea.
In her opening address, Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of Police, National Security, and Correctional Services, Mrs. Karen Galokale, speak on behalf of the Honourable Minister, emphasizing the importance of the event.
“It is both an honour and a privilege to deliver these opening remarks at this official opening of the Correctional Service Solomon Islands Legislative Review Forum,” said PS Galokale.
She noted that the enactment of the CSSI Act 2007 and its accompanying Regulations in 2008 marked a historic shift in the country’s correctional approach—from a punitive system rooted in colonial-era legislation to one aligned with human rights, rehabilitation, and international standards.
“Today, we gather because we recognize the need to modernize our correctional framework to meet the demands of the 21st century. This review is part of the Government for National Unity and Transformation’s (GNUT) policy priorities and aligns with our National Development Strategy,” said PS Galokale.
“This is not a routine legal exercise. It is a strategic national priority—ensuring our correctional laws reflect current realities, align with international instruments such as the Nelson Mandela Rules, Beijing Rules, Bangkok Rules, and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and meet the expectations of our citizens,” she added.
Before 2008, Correctional Service Solomon Islands operated under the outdated Prisons Act of 1972 and Regulations of 1973, reflective of a punitive philosophy. The CSSI Act ushered in a progressive, restorative, and community-focused approach, grounded in dignity, rehabilitation, and reintegration.
Over the past 15 years, CSSI has made significant progress, including infrastructure development, staff capacity building, and community partnerships with civil society, churches, and NGOs—achievements that now serve as the foundation for future reforms.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Nicole Smith, Counsellor for Governance and Stability at the Australian High Commission, reaffirmed Australia’s long-standing partnership with Solomon Islands in the law and justice sector.
“Australia is proud to support PS Galokale and Commissioner Mactus Forau’s vision for the sector. Our partnership includes assistance with small-scale infrastructure, staff training and development, SITESA accreditation, and technical support,” says Ms. Smith.
She also highlighted the role of the Melanesian Twinning Program in facilitating knowledge exchange between Solomon Islands and its regional counterparts.
“As the Solomon Islands Government expands its police force, we recognize the downstream impacts on the law and justice sector, including correctional services. This legislative review is critical to ensuring CSSI is equipped to meet future demands,” she added.
Commissioner of CSSI, Mr. Mactus Forau, underscored the importance of the forum in reviewing and updating the Correctional Services Act 2007 and the Correctional Services Regulations 2008.
“The expectations of correctional services have grown. International standards have evolved. Our people’s needs have increased. We must ensure that our legislative framework remains relevant, modern, and effective,” says Commissioner Forau.
“This review is not merely about legislation—it is about strengthening our correctional philosophy, balancing security with rehabilitation, discipline with dignity, and punishment with opportunities for transformation,” he added.
He encouraged active participation from all attendees: “This forum is the beginning of a national conversation. Your insights, expertise, and reflections will shape the future of correctional services in our country.”
Commissioner Forau also expressed appreciation to the CSSI Legislative Review Committee, stakeholders, and the Australian Government through the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership for Justice for their contributions and ongoing support.
Special recognition was given to Legal Consultant Mrs. Joanna Kenilorea for her leadership and guidance throughout the review process.
As part of the ongoing consultation process, the CSSI Legislative Review Committee and its legal team will continue provincial tours in the coming weeks to gather wider input from across the country.
- CSSI Press
