Prime Minister Manele Emphasizes Lessons Learned from COVID-19 Economic Stimulus Package
The Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) will bring the Economic Stimulus Package (ESP) audit report to Parliament for further discussion. Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says that the report has not yet been discussed in Cabinet, as it falls under the purview of the Ministry of Finance and Treasury. “The Finance Minister and Permanent Secretary are still overseas,” Manele stated.
Manele highlighted that the ESP, which was designed to support businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, serves as a critical lesson for the Solomon Islands for future initiatives. He emphasized the government’s intention to learn from this experience and looks forward to a thorough discussion in Parliament.
Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Matthew Wale has called on the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) to urgently provide an update on the status of the criminal investigations related to the ESP report. Wale noted that since the report’s release, the public has been left in the dark about the progress of these investigations, as the RSIPF has issued only one press release.
“Where are we now? Has the investigation started? It is critical for the public to be kept up to date on what is currently being pursued and what remains to be investigated,” Hon. Wale said.
Wale emphasized that the ESP report reveals one of the largest corruption cases in the country’s history, which has significant implications for public trust and governance. “We cannot allow this matter to be sidelined or forgotten. It is a matter of national integrity, and the people need assurance that those implicated will be held accountable,” he stressed.
He urged the RSIPF to expedite the investigations with all necessary technical support and resources, ensuring that no potential leads are overlooked. “The rule of law must prevail, and justice must not be delayed. We must set a clear example that corruption will not be tolerated, regardless of one’s position,” Wale asserted.
The Opposition Leader reiterated his call for public engagement, emphasizing the crucial role citizens play in keeping the issue alive and ensuring accountability. “Our nation and its people cannot afford to let such a serious misappropriation of public funds slip through the cracks. Justice must be seen to be done, and it must be done in full view of the public,” Wale stated.
“Corruption must be met with zero tolerance. Complacency has no place in this fight,” Wale concluded.
Earlier, the Police Commissioner stated that the RSIPF is awaiting the Office of the Auditor General to submit the report. The audit highlighted significant failures in accountability, transparency, and management of the ESP, which was introduced to mitigate the economic fallout of COVID-19. According to the report, over $33 million in grants intended for farmers and small businesses were authorized by government officials without proper oversight, with one officer alone signing off on payments totaling over $6 million. It is understood that the Finance Minister and his Permanent Secretary are currently in China.
