BY JOY OFASIA
The President of the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI), Ofani Eremae, has expressed disappointment after members of the media were denied access to the Gold Ridge mining site following the landslide incident that occurred on 27 July 2026.
Speaking to journalists this afternoon, Mr Eremae said the purpose of the media visit was to gather accurate information and establish the facts surrounding the incident amid widespread rumours and speculation.
“The media travelled to Gold Ridge to find the true story. There has been a lot of rumours and speculation about the incident, and reporters went there to verify the facts. Unfortunately, the media was not allowed to enter the site where the incident to occurred, and there was no official available to provide the information that journalists were seeking,” he said.
Mr Eremae stressed that the media plays a vital role in informing the public and said authorities should make themselves available to answer questions from journalists, particularly during incidents of national significance.
He said the Gold Ridge landslide is a major national issue and that the public expects timely and accurate information from the mining company, the Government, and the Ministry of Mines.
“This is a significant incident involving the lives of our people. Citizens deserve to be informed about what has happened and the actions being taken,” he said.
Mr Eremae also called for responsibility in the sharing of information, especially on social media, noting that the incident is highly sensitive.
He urged both the media and members of the public to be sure that information shared is accurate and does not cause hatred, misinformation, or unnecessary tension.
“Information shared with the public should promote peace, stability, and understanding, especially during sensitive situations such as this,” he said.
