PARLIAMENT will today meet for the first time this year.
This came after the last November’s parliament which turned violent after an illegal protest.
Because of that members of the public will expect tight security around the capital to ensure businesses and the public go about their daily activities.
This week’s parliament sitting is very important; first to debate the budget and second to debate and hopefully passed the motion to ensure the State of Public Emergency (SoPE) remains for the next four months following the declaration by His Excellency Sir David Vunagi last week.
We expect all 49 Members of Parliament (MP) to be present today in parliament to debate these two important agendas.
Once the budget is passed after this week’s meeting, then government can go about its work programs.
The need to pass the SOPE and allow the country to go into emergency mode for the next four months is important because of a serious threat – COVID-19.
This deadly but silent killer has infected millions of people and lives.
We are no exception because cases continue to rise and close to 133 lives have been lost since the outbreak in early January.
The SoPE once passed allows the government to protect its borders and restrict movements to protect this country from any intrusion by this virus.
Most countries are facing the second or third wave of infection and its more serious.
We already went through the first wave. And who knows the second wave might hit again if we are not careful and continue to be ignorant with the health rules.
Therefore as a country, we need to be prepared.
Extending the emergency period is part of solution to keep this virus out from entering the country.
Without the SoPE in place, it means people arriving by boats and aircraft from overseas can go directly to their homes without having to under go quarantine. And this may pose serious risk to the health of our people.
Lets all allow our Members of Parliament (MPs) to debate and approve the SOPE.
Remember the lives of our people matters most at this time.
Passing the motion is very important because the well being of our people must be protected at all cost.
In light of the growing threat, lets continue to acknowledge our frontline officers who have been serving at our borders, airports, police base, quarantine sites and health facilities for their dedication and sacrifice to protect this country and its people.
They deserve our commendation.
Most of all lets acknowledge our Lord God Almighty for His guidance over the past months.
Lets all stand united, support our government to stop anymore spread and also the second wave.
Public must also continue to wear masks, practise social distancing and follow strict health measures and protocols.
May God continue to bless and protect Solomon Islands.
