The Leader of the Independent Members in Parliament and Member of Parliament for Central Guadalcanal Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka has called on the GREAT Coalition Government, law enforcement agencies, and all relevant authorities to urgently address the growing problem of illegal mining activities at Gold Ridge.
The continued proliferation of illegal mining operations in and around the Gold Ridge mine site poses serious threats to public safety, law and order, environmental protection, and the long-term economic interests of Solomon Islands.
It also undermines the rights and interests of customary landowners and compromises the integrity of the country’s mining sector.
“The situation at Gold Ridge has now reached a stage where decisive government intervention is required.
“Illegal mining is not simply a local issue. It is a national issue that affects investor confidence, government revenue, community safety, environmental sustainability, and respect for the rule of law,” the Leader of the Independent Members said.
The Leader acknowledged the difficult socio-economic circumstances faced by many Solomon Islanders, including youth unemployment and limited economic opportunities, but stressed that these challenges cannot justify unlawful activities.
He urged the Government to make the Gold Ridge situation a national priority by coordinating the efforts of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification, the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, Guadalcanal Provincial Government, customary landowners, and the legitimate mining operator to restore order and develop sustainable long-term solutions.
The Leader further called for:
- Immediate enforcement of the law against illegal mining activities.
- Enhanced security around the Gold Ridge mining lease and surrounding areas.
- Stronger coordination between all government agencies responsible for mining regulation and law enforcement.
- Greater engagement with customary landowners and local communities to address the underlying social and economic issues contributing to illegal mining.
- Development of lawful livelihood opportunities for local communities while protecting national mineral resources.
“Our mineral resources belong to the people of Solomon Islands and must be managed responsibly for the benefit of both present and future generations. We cannot allow illegal activities to undermine our national development aspirations or damage the country’s international reputation.”
As the Member of Parliament for Central Guadalcanal, the Leader reaffirmed his commitment to working constructively with the Government, customary landowners, community leaders, and all stakeholders to find practical and lasting solutions that protect both the interests of local communities and the national interest.
“I therefore call upon the Government to treat the Gold Ridge situation as a matter of national importance and to take immediate, coordinated, and decisive action before the situation deteriorates further.”
