Deputy Prime Minister Manasseh Maelanga has called on Honiara Residents to uphold respect and unity.
He made this call when speaking at an Independence Anniversary dinner hosted by the Lord Mayor of Honiara City Council, Eddie Siapu Friday last week.
Maelanga who is currently the Acting Prime Minister said Honiara city is the home of residents from diverse cultures across the country and unity and respect is paramount to enjoy peaceful co-existence.
“We are all Solomon Islanders coming from different Islands with diverse cultural backgrounds that view and do things differently but it is my conviction that unity and respect is vital if we want to enjoy peaceful co-existence,” Maelanga said.
He said this year’s Independence Anniversary Theme of “Iumi Together for a Stronger and Peaceful Solomon Islands” is a perfect reminder that we need to embrace as Solomon Islanders.
Maelanga also congratulated the Lord Mayor of Honiara City, Councilors and workers of Honiara City Council for the efforts in making Honiara city and livable place for all citizens regardless of the challenges faced by the city.
“I am aware the city is facing challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic and the November 2021 riots but I must congratulate you for your efforts in making sure services provided by the council continue to go on,” Maelanga said.
The dinner event was also graced by the Minister of Home Affairs, Hon. Christopher Laore, the Premier of Guadalcanal Province, Hon. Francis Sade, Guests and workers of the city council.
