A heated debate erupted in the Western Provincial Assembly (WPA) during discussions on the Draft Revised Budget 2025/2026, after Ward 17 MPA Hon. Silas Lezutuni delivered a passionate plea for the government to prioritise the long-promised clean water supply project for his constituents.
Hon. Lezutuni last week criticised the proposed $40.2 million budget, saying it fails to reflect the true priorities of rural communities and neglects a basic human right.
“The people of Ward 17 are not asking for a luxury; they are asking for life itself,” he told the Assembly.
He expressed disappointment that the budget appears driven by donor priorities, placing greater emphasis on economic projects such as the Mile Six Cattle Farm, while sidelining essential services like water and sanitation.
The MPA condemned the reallocation of funds from the Nusa Banga Water Supply Project to meet the required 42% economic sector threshold, calling it a “structural imbalance” that hurts ordinary people.
He reminded the House that Ward 17 residents contribute to the provincial economy through market fees in Munda, yet continue to live without access to clean water.
“What am I to tell my people — that the cattle have water, but their children do not?” he asked.
Hon. Lezutuni urged provincial leaders to correct the imbalance and pass a budget that reflects the real needs of the people.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
