MALAITA Province has appointed a special select committee to pursue its intention to become a “sovereign nation”.
Premier Peter Ramohia revealed this on Friday.
He said the move followed the announcement he made last month of “the intention to declare a sovereign nation of Malaita”.
Mr Ramohia said the taskforce has been assigned to draw up a roadmap and timetable to further consult on this “intention” with Malaitans, its 14 national MPs, the national Government and other interested stakeholders.
The taskforce is chaired by provincial member and lawyer Leslie Kwaiga.
Members are:
Deputy Chairman – Alick Maeaba (Deputy Premier)
Secretary – Sam Alasia
Members representing national MPs – Manasseh Maelanga and
– Peter Tom
Member – Ella Kauhue (representing Women)
Member – Bishop Sam Sahu (representing the churches)
Member – Reuben Moli (Former Premier of Malaita Province)
Member – Michael Maeliau (Malaita Provincial Executive)
Member – Rose Liata (Malaita provincial Executive)
Member – Methodius Iapara (representing the Youths)
Member – Chief Daniel Lulu (representing the chiefs)
Member – Lawrence Makili (representing Malaita Outer Islands)
The committee held its first meeting on Wednesday 16th September in Auki.
Mr Ramohia said during the meeting, he reminded members of the enormous task ahead especially with regards to the consultation process on the “intention”.
The committee also agreed on a timetable and Work plan to carry out this consultation process.
The committee will hold its second meeting in Honiara on Saturday 10th October to consult with Malaita national MPs and prominent Malaita leaders.
Further consultation meetings will be held later this year and early next year.
