CHIEFS across the country have expressed their desire to be part of the modern governance system.
Up to 10 chiefs representing the nine provinces expressed this when they met the Minister for National Unity, Reconciliation and Peace, Samson Maneka, in Honiara on Wednesday.
“We wanted chiefs as traditional leaders to be recognized in our modern government system,” a spokesman Rocky Sugumanu told the minister during the meeting.
“We are seeking the government to recognise role of traditional chiefs in the provinces under chapter seven, section 114 subsection (2) of the constitution,” Mr Sugumanu added.
He said chiefs have been fighting for recognition for so long so it’s only appropriate the government take this into account.
“If only the government can recognize the role of chiefs and empower them, we believe Solomon Islands will be a better and peaceful place to live,” Mr Sugumanu said.
He said during the ethnic tension when the nation was down on its knee, it was the chiefs who ensure there’s order in the community.
“So we want the government to recognize this.”
Mr Sugumanu said they also want if the following can be taken into account by the day government:
· Repeal chapter 133 of the Land and Titles Act
· Fund the customary land records at chapter 132 of the Act
· Establish traditional chiefs’ panel to settle customary lands in the provinces and,
· Remove court of law-customary land (Under rule of Evidence).
“These are areas we want the government to prioritize if they want to see changes taking place in the provinces<” Mr Sugumanu said. Minister Manekain response said they have taken note of the concerns and will look into them. “What you have raised today is true and we will consult with government and other ministries to look further into that,” he said. He urged chiefs to visit his office if they have any concerns regarding the traditional governance system that they are working on at the moment. By LESLEY SANGA
