Solomon Islands PM faces scrutiny over forestry ministry rental

The Solomon Islands Parliamentary Opposition is questioning a monthly SBD$100,000 government rental arrangement for a property in Lengakiki used by the Ministry of Forestry and Research. Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare has raised concerns regarding transparency and accountability, noting that a certified Certificate of Title identifies Prime Minister Matthew Wale as the registered Fixed Term Estate holder for the property.

The Ministry of Forestry and Research stated that the tenancy began in November last year, prior to Wale becoming Prime Minister in May 2026, when he served as Leader of the Opposition. The Ministry maintains the property was selected for its suitability and proximity to existing headquarters to accommodate approximately 15 staff members.

While the rental agreement was entered into with THM Logistics Limited—a company reportedly owned by the Prime Minister’s daughter, Tamra Wale—the Opposition points out that the property title does not list THM Logistics Limited as a registered lessee or sublessee. The Ministry has stated that the arrangement was properly processed and has provided documentation to the Public Accounts Committee.