Manasseh Sogavare urges Solomon Islands government to address fiscal concerns

Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare has criticized the GREAT Coalition Government in the Solomon Islands, urging the administration to address governance and spending concerns rather than citing its short time in office as a reason to avoid scrutiny. Sogavare challenged the government's ability to meet long-term economic and social promises by 2028, noting that the country faces significant fiscal pressures and depleted cash balances according to IMF assessments.

Specific criticisms include high-cost appointments, such as the Attorney-General’s reported gross salary of $35,000 per fortnight, and a SBD354,500 consultancy awarded to the Ministry of Health. Sogavare also called for greater transparency regarding the funding and implementation of proposed policies, such as the introduction of free education in 2027.

Despite these criticisms, Sogavare expressed support for Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s motion for Parliament to adjourn sine die. He stated the government requires this time to focus on essential legislative matters and the national budget, noting that Parliament has provided a four-month window to complete budgetary work.