THE Deputy Premier of Western Province, Brian Lotikena has reaffirmed the province’s commitment to pursuing statehood and advocating for a federal government system.
He made the reaffirmation in his contribution to the debate on the Sine Die Motion in the Western Provincial Assembly meeting held on Friday on Imagination Island, near Gizo.
Lotikena emphasised the Western Provincial Government’s (WPG’s) steadfast position on federalism, a priority it has championed since 1978.
“Our unwavering stance on the federal government system continues to be a top priority.
“While our patience has been tested, our resolve remains firm. We will not be deterred in our pursuit of statehood for the Western Solomon,’’ he said.
Reflecting on the challenges faced over the years, Deputy Premier Lotikena recalled the province’s efforts in the Constituent Assembly to advocate for reform.
Despite these attempts, he said proposals often fell short of the necessary votes, leading to frustration, but not defeat.
“The spirit of the Western Province has never been one to back down in the face of adversity. Through each challenge, we have remained strong in our pursuit of the State of Western Solomons,” he added.
He underscored that the quest for a federal government system is not merely a political aspiration, but a demand for fairness.
“We believe that a federal system will grant us the autonomy to manage our own resources, safeguard our unique cultures and ensure that local communities are not left behind in decisions that impact their futures,” the Deputy Premier said.
Deputy Premier Lotikena called for unity amongst the people of Western Province, urging them to continue the fight for a more inclusive and just governance system.
“We have proven time and time again that we will not be deterred. We will continue to advocate for a federal government system because we believe it is the best path forward for all the people of the Solomon Islands,” he added.
Deputy Premier Lotikena appealed to all MPAs to envision a future where the strengths of the provinces are recognised and where the people can shape their own destiny.
“Let us stand united in the pursuit of the State of Western Solomons and a truly federal system of governance,” he asserted.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
