AN observer has welcomed the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC)’s move to create a separate budget head for the Solomon Islands Independent Commission Against Corruption (SIICAC).
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele announced the decision during a press conference in the Cabinet Room on Tuesday.
He said the Government recognises the important role of SIICAC in promoting integrity and accountability, and the 2026 National Budget will include a dedicated budget head to support the Commission’s operations and independence.
“SIICAC’s budget and operations will no longer come under the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet,” Mr Manele said.
However, an observer noted that while this is a positive step, SIICAC will still remain under the OPMC, similar to the Leadership Code Commission and the Ombudsman’s Office.
“Therefore, SIICAC is still not fully independent to perform its functions,” the observer said.
“The only difference is that SIICAC will now control its own budget rather than OPMC controlling it.
“Currently, SIICAC must seek OPMC approval before forwarding its budget requests to the Ministry of Finance and Treasury.
“But under the new arrangement, SIICAC will be able to approve its own budget internally and deal directly with the Ministry of Finance for payments to support its work,” the observer added.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Manele confirmed that the recruitment process for the Director General of SIICAC has reached its final stage.
“All interviews have been completed, and the recruitment panel is finalising documentation for submission to the Justice and Legal Service Commission for consideration.
“We expect the announcement of a new Director General soon,” he said.
Solomon Star understands that former Director General John Kouni and former Chairman of the Law Reform Commission, Frank Paulsen, are among the applicants for the post.
SIICAC is responsible for implementing the provisions of the Anti-Corruption Act 2018, including coordination with key stakeholders to deliver its four core functions — investigation, prosecution, education, and prevention — and ensuring coherence across these areas.
By EDDIE OSIFELO
Solomon Star, Honiara
