Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has reminded Parliament that it is the State’s responsibility to provide accommodation for the Prime Minister, not the Prime Minister’s responsibility to house himself.
Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, PM Manele addressed claims made by the Leader of the Opposition, who alleged that the Prime Minister is renting a house for $48,000 per month from a foreign owner.
Manele clarified that the State rents a residence from the market that meets security and functionality requirements for the Prime Minister’s official duties, which is common practice for all Prime Ministers.
He explained that any official residence for the Prime Minister must meet two key criteria:
- Security: Assessed by the Close Protection Personnel (CPP) of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF).
- Functionality: The residence must accommodate official guests and dignitaries, assessed by the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade.
PM Manele stated that his private residence in Tasahe does not meet these requirements, which is why the State rents his current residence.
He also dispelled the claim that the house is foreign-owned, clarifying that it is owned by a Solomon Islands citizen.
Manele noted that the residence he occupies is the most affordable option that meets security standards, costing less than other properties, which ranged from $75,000 per month and higher.
“I personally pay 40.9% of the monthly rent from my housing allowance, the same allowance given to other Members of Parliament. I receive no personal financial benefit from this allowance,” he said.
The total rent for three years is $1,760,400, of which PM Manele will personally cover $720,003.60, while the State pays the remaining 59.1%.
PM Manele also highlighted his role in securing funds for the construction of official state residences, including the Prime Minister’s residence, which is expected to begin by early 2025 and be completed by 2027.
When completed, Solomon Islands will join other nations with official state residences for their Prime Ministers and Presidents.
