The Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) has announced plans to relocate five Commonwealth war graves from World War II currently located at Number Three Matanikau Cemetery in Central Honiara.
The graves belong to soldiers of the 1st and 3rd Battalions of the Fiji Infantry Regiment.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele confirmed the relocation during a press briefing following his return from the Pacific Leaders Meeting TROIKA held in Nadi, Fiji, last week.
The decision follows reports that buildings have been constructed over parts of the cemetery site.
“I believe some structures have been built over these graves,” Prime Minister Manele said.
To move forward with the relocation, the GNUT is working in partnership with the Honiara City Council (HCC) to assess the required procedures and ensure a respectful and appropriate transition.
During a sideline meeting with Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, PM Manele raised the cemetery issue along with other key topics, including:
- A review of the Solomon Islands–Fiji Air Services Agreement,
- Bilateral security cooperation,
- The role of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) in the New Caledonia peace process, and
- Preparations for the 54th Pacific Islands Forum, set for September.
Fiji’s military personnel have consistently taken part in Remembrance Day services in Honiara, honoring those who gave their lives during the war.
Some Fijian soldiers from the Commando Fiji Guerrillas who have no known graves are also memorialized at the Suva Memorial in Fiji.
By LACHLAN SHYVES EDDIE
Solomon Star, Honiara
