BY JOY OFASIA
Prime Minister Mathew Wale has called on Solomon Islanders to renew their commitment to nation-building, urging citizens to leave a stronger, fairer and more hopeful nation for future generations.
Delivering the closing remarks of his address during the country’s 48th Independence Anniversary celebrations at the National Stadium in Honiara last week, the Prime Minister challenged Solomon Islanders to reflect not only on the nation’s achievements since independence but also on the legacy they will leave behind.
He said that while future generations may remember the leaders who served the country, what will matter most is the condition of the nation they inherit.
The Prime Minister expressed hope that future Solomon Islanders would inherit healthy forests, productive seas, clean air and caring communities, supported by strong churches, quality schools, accessible healthcare, an independent judiciary, trusted public institutions and a democracy strengthened by integrity.
He also envisioned an economy that creates opportunities for all citizens and a nation whose greatest strength remains the character of its people.
Prime Minister Wale said he hoped future generations would look back on today’s leaders as those who strengthened the nation’s democracy, deepened the meaning of freedom and faithfully managed the blessings entrusted to them.
“If history can truthfully say those things about us, then our generation will have fulfilled its calling,” he said.
The Prime Minister invited every Solomon Islander to renew what he described as a covenant with God, with the nation’s ancestors, with one another and with future generations.
He said this covenant should be reflected in treating every citizen with dignity, fairness and respect while working to leave behind a stronger nation for children and grandchildren.
Describing nation-building as an “unfinished work,” Prime Minister Wale reminded citizens that independence marked not the end of the country’s journey but the beginning of a shared responsibility.
He called on Solomon Islanders to walk that path with humility, govern with integrity, pursue justice with courage and safeguard the blessings entrusted to the nation.
The Prime Minister also appealed for unity, saying that despite the country’s many languages, customs and differing opinions, Solomon Islanders share one destiny and one future.
He urged citizens to remain united under God, the Constitution and a common commitment to justice, peace and reconciliation.
Prime Minister Wale later said he offered a prayer for God’s continued guidance and blessings upon the nation, its children, families, churches, customary leaders, provinces, public servants and international friends.
He reaffirmed his call for all Solomon Islanders to continue the work of nation-building and to build a nation that reflects the values of faith, justice, service, stewardship and hope.
