……Malaita projects described as propaganda
THE PARLIAMENTARY Opposition group has described the major development projects in Malaita earmarked by the Democratic Coalition for Change (DCC) government as mere propaganda.
Leader of Opposition and Member of Parliament (MP) for Hograno/Kia/Havulei constituency, Jeremiah Manele said, this in a press conference with the local media on Sunday.
“The government should at least inform the nation or country as to where things are at the moment especially on the progress of the important national projects in Malaita.
“Since the government came into power, they have used the major development projects in Malaita as propaganda because up to this moment, nothing is happening,” Manele said.
He added that the national projects that were earmarked for Malaita are very important for both the province and the country as well.
“These national projects are very important.
“They are key strategic projects that will not only benefit Malaita itself but Solomon Islands as a country.
“It is disappointing to note that we do not see a sign of progress where the government told us about the projects in Malaita,” the Opposition Leader added.
He said, that it is now time that the Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare must explain to the nation the progress of the major development projects.
However, speaking at Malaita’s 32nd second appointed day in Auki last Friday, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has assured Malaita that the DCC government will still pursue the implementation of national projects earmarked for Malaita.
He said, that the national government has strong emphasis that resources owners, as partners in prudent decision making processes, must benefit from their own resource and should enjoy the benefits from their resources.
Mr Sogavare said funding for the Fiu Hydro Project is already secured and the next step is implementation.
Meanwhile, other major projects that were earmarked for Malaita includes the development of the Suava Bay seaport and tuna factory and the Bina Harbour seaport and Economic Free Zone in Malaita province , and the proposed Aluta Basin and Waisisi palm oil projects.
By RONALD TOITO’ONA
