Manasseh Sogavare calls for deeper democratic engagement in Solomon Islands

Solomon Islands Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare has called on citizens to view democracy as a continuous responsibility rather than a process limited to quadrennial elections. Marking the International Day of Democracy, the former prime minister emphasized that true democracy is defined by what occurs between election cycles.

Sogavare stated that democracy requires citizens to be well-informed, capable of questioning government decisions, and respectful of public institutions and the rule of law. He argued that the constitutional principle that all power belongs to the people necessitates active civic duty, warning that citizens cannot demand accountability from leaders while failing to uphold personal responsibility or tolerating dishonesty for their own interests.

Furthermore, Sogavare advocated for a democratic model tailored to the Solomon Islands' national experience and traditional community values, where leadership is tied to obligation. He also stressed the importance of political pluralism, noting that the role of the Opposition is to provide necessary scrutiny rather than acting as an enemy to the Government.