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Government Moves to Strengthen SIICAC’s Independence with Dedicated 2026 Budget

The Solomon Islands Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening integrity and good governance by announcing that the Solomon Islands Independent Commission Against Corruption (SIICAC) will operate independently from 2026 with its own dedicated budget.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele made the announcement during a press conference today, highlighting that SIICAC’s budget and operations will no longer fall under the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC).

He said this reform reflects the government’s recognition of SIICAC’s vital role in promoting integrity, transparency, and accountability in public institutions.

“The 2026 National Budget will include a separate budget head for SIICAC to ensure its operational independence,” Prime Minister Manele stated.

“This move will enable the Commission to function more effectively as an independent body mandated to combat corruption in the country.”

The Prime Minister also confirmed that the recruitment process for the Commission’s Director General has reached its final stage, with interviews completed and documentation being finalized for submission to the Justice and Legal Service Commission.

The appointment announcement is expected soon.

The government’s decision to separate SIICAC’s funding from the OPMC marks a major step toward strengthening anti-corruption mechanisms and reinforcing public confidence in the integrity of national institutions.

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  • Ronald Toito'ona

    Ronald Flier Toito’ona is a distinguished Solomon Islands Investigative journalist. He is part of In-depth Solomons, an investigative newsroom based in Honiara dedicated to transparency and accountability.

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