PRIME Minister, the Honourable Jeremiah Manele, MP, emphasized that political stability is crucial for long-term and transformational development.
The Prime Minister made the remark during a courtesy call by the Premier of Malaita Province, the Honourable Elijah Asilaua, at the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC).
Premier Asilaua was accompanied by five executive members, including the Provincial Secretary of Malaita Province, Eric George.
Prime Minister Manele, however, underscored that transformational development does not happen overnight, adding that it takes years.
The Prime Minister emphasized political stability to underscore the importance of aligning the ambitions of the Malaita Provincial Government with those of the National Government. He stated that while both Malaita Province and the National Government share a common vision for transformational development, this ambition can only be realized if political stability is maintained.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged Malaita Province’s economic contribution, particularly through its manpower and enterprising people.
Prime Minister Manele further commended the Asilaua-led government for its partnership with the national government and development partners, which has resulted in ongoing projects on the ground and others in the pipeline.
He noted the various matters raised by Premier Asilaua, including Malaita Province’s desire to retain the land titles of Crown Lands within the province. The Prime Minister stated that other provinces have expressed similar concerns; however, the government is proposing an amendment bill for Parliament’s consideration. The bill aims to ensure there is no room for abuse when lands are under the control of a Provincial Government.
Regarding Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Prime Minister Manele encouraged the Malaita Provincial Government to collaborate closely with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour, and Immigration (MCILI). He emphasized that SMEs play a pivotal role in sustaining the private sector in any economy.
The Prime Minister also applauded the Asilaua-led government for taking the initiative to allocate land to the people of the Malaita Outer Islands affected by climate change. The relocation process is yet to be realized.
The Asilaua-led executive is known as the Malaita Economic Cooperation and Transformation Government.
