Former Governor-General Sir John Ini Lapli, GCMG, passes away. Arrangements for a state funeral are underway.
The Office of the Governor-General has announced the passing of Sir John Ini Lapli, GCMG, who served as Governor-General of the Solomon Islands from 1999 to 2004.
In a death notice broadcast by the national radio, SIBC, the Office of the Governor-General stated: “From the Office of the Governor-General to the government and the people of the Solomon Islands, it is sad to inform you of the passing away of one of our statesmen, Sir John Ini Lapli, GCMG, Governor-General from 1999 to 2004, who was called to rest this morning, January 18, 2025, at 3 a.m. in Honiara. Sir John Ini Lapli died peacefully at his accommodation in Honiara after a long struggle with illness.”
Sir John, originally from Temotu Province, had a notable career in public service. Prior to his election as Governor-General in June 1999, he served as Premier of Temotu Province. His tenure as Governor-General included a period of civil unrest during which he was briefly taken hostage by rebels in 2000 and released a few days later after assurances from the Prime Minister and his government to resign.
Sir John’s term ended in 2004 when he was not re-elected, receiving six of the 41 votes in Parliament.
It is understood that arrangements for a state funeral are underway, with a committee tasked to oversee the process.
Further details regarding the funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.
Late Sir John Ini Lapli was the fourth Governor General of the Solomon Islands.
