The Solomon Islands Council of Trade Unions (SICTU) conveys deep concern regarding recent events surrounding tax exemptions in our country.
During a press conference, the Finance Minister mentioned that all tax exemptions he approved were also endorsed by the Tax Exemption Board under his purview.
However, SICTU remains sceptical of this explanation and is troubled by the potential impacts of the minister’s actions on the economy and the people of the Solomon Islands.
While the public found assurance in the minister’s announcement that no further tax exemptions would be granted due to economic conditions, it has come to light that the Minister of Finance signed off on tax exemptions amounting to millions of dollars, citing approval from the tax exemption board. This perceived use of the board as a shield for the minister’s discretionary powers has led to distress and disappointment among workers nationwide and the general populace.
SICTU calls upon the Minister of Finance and Treasury to uphold the commitment made to the people of the Solomon Islands by immediately ceasing all tax exemptions, as pledged in parliament.
Transparency and accountability in financial matters are essential to safeguard the welfare and prosperity of our nation and its citizens.
SICTU urges the Minister of Finance and Treasury to reassess their stance on tax exemptions and prioritize the interests of the people and the Solomon Islands’ economy.
As representatives of the majority of workers in both the public and private sectors, the Solomon Islands Council of Trade Unions takes its responsibility seriously in shedding light on recent efforts by the Minister of Finance to justify the continued granting of tax exemptions. Despite the government’s challenges in providing essential services to workers and the public, we firmly assert that the minister must keep his promise to the public by halting all tax exemptions and focusing on the well-being of the people above individual interests.
Recent statements from the Minister of Finance attempting to shift blame onto the tax exemption board do not absolve him of responsibility. Accountability begins at the top, and it is the minister’s duty to ensure the proper collection of revenue. Rather than deflecting fault, the minister should take definitive action to fulfill his pledge to the public by suspending all tax exemptions until basic services are accessible to all workers and citizens.
It is unjustifiable that while many workers struggle to meet their needs and crucial services remain out of reach for numerous individuals, the government persists in prioritizing tax exemptions for a select few.
By honoring his commitment to the public, the minister can exhibit genuine leadership and dedication to the well-being of all Solomon Islanders.
SICTU appeals to the Minister of Finance to demonstrate integrity and transparency by taking steps and to halt all tax exemptions as he announced in parliament and ensure that public resources are utilized to address the urgent needs of the populace.
Through accountability and responsible governance, we can establish a just and inclusive society that benefits all workers and citizens in the Solomon Islands,
- SICTU
