Former Western Province Premier George Solingi Lilo has expressed concern over what he describes as a growing “quiet crisis of governance” in the country, as public debate intensifies online over the Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) issue.
Mr Lilo told Solomon Star in a interview last week that the SIPA matter is only “the tip of the iceberg,” reflecting wider frustrations among citizens about governance, accountability and the government’s ability to safeguard national interests.
He noted that while the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) has committed itself to reform and development, many people particularly in rural areas continue to struggle with inadequate basic services.
“These include shortages of essential drugs in clinics, poor transport services, deteriorating public infrastructure such as wharves and bridges, substandard classroom facilities, and failing water supply systems,” Mr Lilo said.
He questioned where existing policies, funding mechanisms and cross-sector strategies including the Constituency Development Fund (CDF)—may be falling short.
“What has gone wrong with our political and development strategies? Where is the leakage that has caused us to be overwhelmed by the realities on the ground?” he asked.
Mr Lilo said the government’s failure to fully deliver on key promises has eroded public trust, leading to growing dissatisfaction expressed through social media protests and online discourse, particularly in relation to the SIPA controversy.
He also raised concern that while a small number of civil society and public interest groups continue to speak out, a large portion of the population remains silent.
“This silence may be due to lack of awareness, or the influence of powerful business and political interests that allegedly play a role in sustaining the current political order,” he said.
Mr Lilo warned that a culture of patronage and nepotism undermines democratic principles and weakens accountability, leaving citizens feeling increasingly powerless.
“When meaningful public engagement is suppressed, ineffective governance is perpetuated and voices calling for reform are silenced,” he added.
He concluded by describing the situation as a “quiet crisis of governance” that requires urgent reflection and corrective action to restore public confidence in leadership and institutions.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
