BY NED GAGAHE
Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) has called on Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele to extend his government’s commitment to independent institutions by also providing a dedicated, independent budget for the Political Parties Commission (PPC).
TSI’s call comes following the Prime Minister’s recent announcement that his Executive Government will create a separate budget allocation for the Solomon Islands Independent Commission Against Corruption (SIICAC), removing it from the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet’s (OPMC) budget.
In a statement issued yesterday, TSI welcomed the move, describing it as a bold and encouraging step towards strengthening transparency and accountability in the country.
However, TSI also urges Mr. Manele to apply the same principle to the Political Parties Commission, whose budget, it said, is already provided for under Section 9, Division 2 of the Political Parties Integrity Act 2014.
“This will safeguard SIICAC from future changes of leadership in our political government.
“Transparency Solomon Islands also calls on the Prime Minister to do the same for the Political Parties Commission budget, as this is already provided for in the Political Parties Integrity Act 2014,” TSI stated.
TSI said the establishment of independent budget appropriations for oversight bodies like SIICAC and the PPC will ensure that such institutions remain impartial and functional, regardless of changes in government.
The watchdog group commended the Prime Minister’s leadership, noting that his public statements made to the media on November 4, 2025, reflected a renewed determination to fight corruption and to restore public confidence in governance.
“This is welcome news and one which shows that here is a Prime Minister determined to make bold decisions in the interest of Solomon Islands as a nation,” the statement continued.
TSI also urges the government to amend the Anti-Corruption Act to formally include provisions ensuring SIICAC’s independent budget is appropriated directly by Parliament, further insulating the institution from political interference.
The organisation said the Prime Minister’s initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to good governance, transparency, and accountability, while recognising that sustained political will is key to combating corruption and improving national development outcomes.
TSI emphasised that both SIICAC and the Political Parties Commission play vital roles in strengthening democratic integrity — SIICAC by investigating corruption, and the PPC by ensuring fair political competition and upholding the integrity of political parties.
“We must empower these institutions to operate independently and effectively. That is the only way to safeguard our democracy and ensure equal participation for all Solomon Islanders,” TSI said.
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