North West Guadalcanal Constituency Development Officer (CDO) Albert Fono has publicly responded to rising criticism over constituency operations, calling for unity while outlining the challenges faced by the office in its first year of full operation.
Fono said the constituency office, opened in October 2024, has endured “a tough and challenging” first year, with daily pressure from constituents seeking assistance ranging from transport fares, rice support, cultural obligations, funerals, and medical needs.
He noted that while financial details will be released after an official audit, several funding allocations for 2025 have already been received and utilised under high demand.
These include:
* $1.5 million recurrent budget, largely diverted to social and cultural support due to frequent community requests.
* $400,000 education grant, which he described as insufficient against heavy school fee submissions, forcing the office to add another $300,000. Some secondary and primary fees remain outstanding.
* $276,000 church grant, already fully used.
* $1.8 million CDF grant, of which only $400,000 has been released, with $1.4 million still pending from the national government.
* $1 million transport fund, still held in the constituency account.
Fono said delays in the release of national government funds were the main reason for slow project distribution, adding that other constituencies may have progressed earlier due to handovers from outgoing MPs, returning MPs with existing stock, or MPs who are business owners able to borrow and later reimburse project materials.
Responding to accusations that he is registered in another constituency, Fono clarified that CDO, CPO and CAO positions are public service roles open to all qualified applicants.
He added that he contested the 2014 and 2019 national elections in North West Guadalcanal and supported the current MP’s successful campaign.
He acknowledged his temporary suspension and said he accepts any outcome, but stressed that the role of a CDO is “not an easy one,” especially under intense public pressure.
He also condemned what he called unfair accusations made against him online.
Fono ended with an appeal for unity:
“I call on my good people of NWGC—forget the divisions. Let us stand united in our work and deeds. Only then will God pour out His blessing.
“God bless NWGC.”
By John Chrisma
Solomon Star Online
