Minister for Home Affairs and Member for Shortland Islands, Honourable Isikeli Vave, has defended his intervention in the National Olympic Committee Solomon Islands (NOCSI) elections, saying good governance in sports is “non‑negotiable” for the government.
Speaking during the Motion of Sine‑Die in parliament, Vave said he had been accused of interference after calling for the postponement of the elections to allow a full review of the process.
He argued that his responsibility as minister was to uphold legislation, policies and government frameworks, and that the integrity of sports administration must be protected.
“I make no apology for exercising that responsibility, nor for calling for the postponement of the elections,” he said. “Good governance is non‑negotiable for this government. This is not a personal position. This is the formal position of the Government and of this Parliament.”
The minister said he had received numerous calls and messages from sports administrators, athletes and citizens raising concerns about alleged attempts to exclude national federations from voting and about non‑compliance with NOCSI’s constitution.
He warned that such practices risked entrenching personal interests over the interests of athletes.
“It is unacceptable that federations which are inactive and have not conducted national championships across provinces are nominating candidates,” Vave said.
“Sports must be inclusive and national in scope.”
Vave added that the achievements of Solomon Islands athletes on the regional and international stage in 2025 had demonstrated the country’s potential when systems are strengthened and opportunities created. He pledged to continue pressing for transparency and accountability in sports governance.
“This matter is not concluded,” he said.
“Our people deserve institutions that serve athletes and uphold fairness.”
By ANDRIANAH DELASALET KOLE
Solomon Star, Honiara
