The Government plans to table two significant pieces of legislation during the third meeting of the 12th Parliament, scheduled to commence on 24 April 2025.
The two proposed Bills are the Special Economic Zone Bill and the Mines and Minerals Bill.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele confirmed this during a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet on Monday, expressing hope that both Bills will be passed during the sitting.
Speaking to the media, Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification, Bradley Tovosia, said the Mines and Minerals Bill is currently being printed and should be ready by Tuesday.
“Once printing is completed, it will be forwarded to Parliament,” he said.
Minister Tovosia emphasized that the new legislation is for the people of Solomon Islands, particularly customary landowners who own the country’s natural resources.
“This new Bill gives more power to the resource owners,” he said.
He further explained that under the proposed law, local communities will be allowed to engage in mining activities on their land, marking a significant shift from previous regulations.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Manele also revealed that he has extended a formal invitation to His Excellency the Governor General to deliver the Speech from the Throne at the opening of Parliament.
The Prime Minister stated that the upcoming parliamentary session is expected to run throughout May, after which Parliament will be adjourned.
“I anticipate calling Parliament to sit on three occasions in 2025 — the first sitting beginning on 24 April, the second in July or August, and the third in October, November, or December,” PM Manele said.
He added that His Excellency will outline the government’s legislative agenda during his speech to Parliament.
By EDDIE OSIFELO
Solomon Star, Honiara
