Dear Editor – There is no doubt that RAMSI has helped our country turn and return from the edge of the abyss of long term destruction and despair.
It was rather unfortunate that most of the “farewelling” occurred only in one place.
All the parties, cocktails, toasts, speeches, ceremonies and fireworks were done in hotels and other venues in Honiara. Samfala nomoa benefit.
Then again only a handful of people participated or witnessed the curtain-call to one of the most significant periods of our nation’s history.
If RAMSI had come to help Solomon Islands, it would have been more appropriate for the Government to assist and arrange with all the Provinces to perhaps conduct their own “thank yous” and “farewells” at the Provincial centres.
It need not be expensive programs.
No need for fireworks. Perhaps the MPs of the Provinces could have accompanied one or two RAMSI officials to their respective Provinces.
Then the Provinces could thank and farewell RAMSI in their own cultural, social or religious way.
By doing so, it would have allowed the rest of Solomon Islands to partake in a special and significant historic event.
From what I have seen over the last week it appeared as if RAMSI was only about Honiara.
A friend commented that perhaps the name ought to have been RAMHON.
Our leaders need to think outside of the box at times.
If they are truly committed to build a united and thriving Solomon Islands then they ought to reach out to our people beyond the Honiara City boundaries.
Thank you RAMSI and long live Solomon Islands.
Gary Fa’aitoa
Central Honiara
