Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) has refcently called on the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to refrain from interfering in the political affairs of the Solomon Islands.
This statement follows a reported request by the PRC Embassy for a meeting with the Minister for Rural Development, Hon. Daniel Suilea Waneoroa, regarding his political affiliation as one of the Co-Chairs of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC).
IPAC is an international coalition of legislators advocating for a more critical and transparent approach to China.
“Do not create further political instability in our country for your own interests,” TSI said.
“The people of Solomon Islands have endured enough political turmoil. We need a stable government that can focus on addressing our developmental, economic, and social challenges.”
TSI strongly condemns the reported dialogue initiated by the PRC Embassy with Hon. Waneoroa, purportedly to express concerns over his involvement with IPAC and to issue three conditions for continued engagement.
“We ask: with whom is the PRC seeking to engage? Is it Minister Waneoroa personally, the Ministry of Rural Development, the Solomon Islands government as a whole, or the new GNUT Executive Government led by Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele?” TSI questioned.
“The People’s Republic of China must understand: Solomon Islands is not a satellite state like Hong Kong. No embassy has the right to issue political demands or threats to our sovereign nation.”
TSI pointed out that Prime Minister (PM) Manele has only recently secured support through a Motion of No Confidence, backed by many first- and second-term Members of Parliament seeking political stability.
“He must now focus on governing and serving the people—not be distracted by foreign interference,” TSI stated.
TSI said the conduct and demands of the PRC Embassy at this politically sensitive time are unacceptable. They reflect not a genuine friendship but one tied to conditional “benefits” and external pressure.
“These actions only sow further instability, diverting the Prime Minister’s attention and energy from the real needs of our people,” TSI said.
“If you are truly our friend—as you claim—stop interfering in our political processes. Respect the democratic rights of our Members of Parliament to make independent decisions in service of the people.”
TSI further emphasized the right of Solomon Islanders and their representatives to question all development partners and diplomatic allies critically.
“Explain your concerns to the people of Solomon Islands—but do not threaten our government into submission simply because you hold financial leverage,” TSI concluded.
