Leader of the Independent Group in Parliament, has called on the Minister of Mines and Energy Bradley Tovosia, to immediately rectify his recent actions in the appointment of public officers to the Board of the Solomon Islands Water Authority (SIWA).
Peter Kenilorea Jr. has expressed grave concern over the Minister’s actions, asserting that they exceed the powers vested in him by law.
The appointments, dated 13 September, 2024, were gazetted on the 26th of the same month.
Hon. Kenilorea Jr. highlighted that unless there has been amendments to the relevant law which he is not aware of, Minister Tovosia appointed more than two public officers to the board of five, a clear contravention of the statutory limits established under the relevant laws governing the Solomon Islands Water Authority. The SIWA Act clearly states that of the five board members that can be appointed to the board of SIWA, only two should be public officers.
“As a minister of the Crown entrusted with the responsibility of serving our people, it is imperative that we conduct our duties within the boundaries set by law,” said Hon. Kenilorea.
“The Minister’s decision to appoint more than two public officers to the board is not only legally questionable, but it also sets a dangerous precedent for undermining the rule of law in this country.”
Hon. Kenilorea further called on Minister Tovosia to act swiftly in correcting this breach of law and ensuring that such actions do not recur.
“Our country is built on the foundation that no one is above the law. This principle is not negotiable.
“I urge the Minister to respect the laws that govern his office and to ensure that he acts within the legal framework entrusted to him by the people of Solomon Islands,” Hon. Kenilorea added.
The Independent Group Leader emphasized that accountability is paramount in the dispensation of public duties.
“As leaders, we must be the first to uphold the law and maintain transparency in our actions. The people of Solomon Islands deserve no less,” he concluded.
Hon. Kenilorea Jr. reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that all government officials, regardless of their rank, adhere strictly to the laws of the land.
He noted that a failure to do so threatens the integrity of the country’s institutions and undermines public confidence in the government.
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-Independent Office
