THE Prime Minister, Honorable Jeremiah Manele, MP, praised the commissioners of the Solomon Islands Commission against Corruption (SICAC) for their contribution to the establishment of SICAC.
Prime Minister Manele made the acknowledgment during a function to farewell the four-person commissioners. The commissioners included Chairperson Sir Frank Kabui, Deputy Chairlady Anika Kingmele, Waita Ben Tabusasi, and Jimmy Sendersley.
The five-year tenure of the commissioners lapsed at midnight on Wednesday. SICAC was established under the Anti-Corruption Act, which was passed in Parliament in July 2018.
Delivering his remarks at the farewell function, the Prime Minister stated, “I sincerely thank the Chairperson and the members of the Commission for answering the important call by the Government and the people of Solomon Islands to be the first to serve the Commission in its initial five years.”
Prime Minister Manele noted the challenges faced by SICAC and assured that some of these challenges would be addressed through the National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2024–2027 and a legislative review to strengthen the Anti-Corruption Act. He further assured that the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) will prioritize amending the Anti-Corruption Act next year.
The Prime Minister underscored that GNUT will ensure SICAC operates effectively in fulfilling its mandatory roles.
He also noted the achievements made by SICAC over the last five years, affirming that these accomplishments are significant milestones. Prime Minister Manele emphasized that it is encouraging to note these successes despite the challenges over the years and assured that the government will continue to support SICAC’s progress.
With the final farewell, the Prime Minister stated, “Your legacy will continue to shine and guide our path as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead of us.”
Combating corruption is one of the government’s priority policies. The government believes that development can only thrive in an environment free from corruption.
