The Solomon Islands Government plans to reactivate the deployment of police officers to serve as United Nations peacekeepers abroad.
This initiative mirrors earlier deployments, when the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) sent five male officers to Darfur, western Sudan in North Africa in 2016, followed by four male officers in 2017, and two female and one male officer in 2018.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele confirmed during a press conference in Honiara on Monday that the government is keen to revive the program if given the opportunity by the UN.
“We would like to reactivate that if the UN could give us that opportunity so we can send some of our policemen and women to take part in peacekeeping operations,” the Prime Minister said.
“There are different areas in the world where UN peacekeeping operations are active, and we would like to be considered again,” he added.
PM Manele explained that once the opportunity arises, the Ministry of Police and the Commissioner of Police will identify officers who meet the necessary capability, capacity, and criteria for selection.
“As a UN member, we believe we should be given this opportunity for exposure and experience. It will not only help develop our officers’ capabilities but also bring economic benefits,” he said.
In addition, the Prime Minister revealed that he has requested for qualified Solomon Islanders to be able to sit the UN Secretariat recruitment exam in Honiara, noting that the current overseas requirement is a major obstacle.
He said only two Solomon Islanders are currently working at the UN office in Geneva, and none at the UN Secretariat in New York.
By EDDIE OSIFELO
Solomon Star, Honiara
