RETIRED Police Officer Mary Maneforu has taken a tough stand against the pervasive issue of domestic violence, urging communities to unite to eradicate this deeply troubling phenomenon from homes.
Having dedicated years of her life to upholding justice and protecting the vulnerable, Mrs Maneforu spoke with an authoritative tone as she highlighted the urgency of addressing the root causes of domestic violence.
She said this ‘heinous crime’ knows no boundary as it affects individuals from all walks of life.
“Domestic violence shatters lives and destroys the very fabric of our communities. It is a scourge that must be addressed head-on. Addressing it to ensure a safer society for all requires the unwavering determination and collective effort by everyone in the community,” Mrs Maneforu said.
Mrs Maneforu was the first Family Violence Coordinator in the RSIPF and held the position for two and half years.
“I was the first Family Violence Coordinator in the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) for two and half years. During my time, I came across many challenges, especially with couples who have domestic violence issues.
“In the past, people think domestic violence is not an issue in communities but since many innocent lives were lost from domestic violence, people are beginning to realize it is a real issue that must be addressed.
“Because of this, as the Family Violence Coordinator, I worked with many RSIPF stakeholders and thought up with the idea of a Family Protection Law and the government worked on a bill and took it to Parliament and Parliament passed the legal framework.
Mrs Maneforu emphasized the importance of spreading awareness on domestic violence, providing support to survivors and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
‘’I encourage everyone to stop condoning domestic violence. It is a crime that many families lost their love ones to.”
Mrs Maneforu served the RSIPF from July 1996 to September 2024 when she retired at the age of 58.
By JIMMY NOLAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
