Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to transparency, stability, and unity as essential pillars for national progress.
Speaking at his fortnightly press conference, Friday, the Prime Minister acknowledged the important role the media plays in keeping citizens informed and holding leaders accountable.
“I want to begin by acknowledging the vital role each of you plays in our democracy. Your dedication to reporting accurately and responsibly helps keep the people of Solomon Islands informed and engaged,” Prime Minister Manele said.
The PM reflected on the recent 47th Independence Anniversary celebrations, commending all who contributed to making the occasion meaningful.
“These occasions remind us of our shared journey and the future we continue to build together,” he said.
He informed the media that Parliament has been adjourned to Monday, 4 August 2025, to allow the Public Accounts Committee to conduct its inquiry into the 2025 Supplementary Appropriation Bill, reaffirming the government’s commitment to due process and fiscal transparency.
A separate Bill to regularise government spending for 2024 will also be presented.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the work of the Bills and Legislation Committee for its review of the National Building Standards Bill — a key step toward strengthening infrastructure resilience across the country.
Looking ahead, Prime Minister Manele will join celebrations in Rennell and Bellona tomorrow, Tuesday 22 July, to mark the province’s 32nd Second Appointed Day.
Later in the month, from 28 July to 2 August, he will be in New Zealand for a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
“This engagement is an opportunity to strengthen partnerships in areas such as trade, development, climate resilience, and regional security,” he said.
Responding to public discussion on the reassignment of Minister Vokia to the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey, the Prime Minister said, the decision was made in consultation with the coalition government and with the broader national interest in mind.
“Leadership sometimes requires looking beyond what is expected, to consider what is necessary. This reshuffle was not about excusing the breach of Cabinet processes.
“It was a deliberate and considered response — one that upholds accountability while safeguarding the unity and stability of government,” he said.
He said political differences are a natural part of any democracy, especially within a coalition government, but must not be allowed to threaten effective governance.
“Minister Vokia remains a member of our coalition. The reassignment reflects our approach to maintaining stability, ensuring the government continues to function effectively, and enabling us to stay focused on the reform agenda,” he added.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s focus on peace, stability, and inclusive development, as outlined by the Government of National Unity and Transformation formed after the 2024 national general election.
His commitment, he said, is to govern responsibly — guided by the nation’s long-term interests and with a steady focus on delivering outcomes that matter to the people of Solomon Islands.
– OPMC
