Malaita Ends Political Rift,  Backs GREAT Coalition

The Malaita Provincial Government has formally reconciled with Prime Minister Matthew Wale, resolving past political differences and pledging to align itself with the vision of the GREAT Coalition Government.

The reconciliation took place during a courtesy visit by the Prime Minister to the Malaita Provincial Chamber in Auki on Saturday.

Premier Elijah Asilaua, accompanied by members of his Executive, led the ceremony, which included the traditional presentation of shell money to Prime Minister Wale and the Special Secretary to the Prime Minister (SSPM), Celsus Talifilu, as a symbol of reconciliation and renewed partnership.

Speaking during the ceremony, Premier Asilaua offered a formal apology for the political tensions that existed between the National Government and the previous Malaita Provincial Government.

“On behalf of the Malaita Provincial Government, I would like to apologise to you, Prime Minister Wale, and to your Special Secretary, Celsus Talifilu, for the political differences of the past,” Premier Asilaua said.

“We assure you that the Malaita Provincial Government will align itself with the National Government,” he added.

_{^{Malaita Premier Elijah Asilaua presenting a traditional shell money to the SSPM Celcus Talifilu in Auki. Credits: PMO Comms.}}

“The provincial government is an agent of the State, and we are committed to working together to achieve the development aspirations of Malaita, the most populous province in our country.”

Responding to the gesture, Prime Minister Wale welcomed the reconciliation and commended Premier Asilaua for his leadership in fostering unity.

He declared that the period of political division was over and called for leaders to focus on delivering development for the people.

“The time for politics is over. It is now time for us to work together as leaders to move our province and our country forward,” Wale said.

“Within the next two years, we expect to see significant changes not only here in Malaita but across the Solomon Islands,” he added.

“While two years is a relatively short period, it is enough time to transform the way government serves our people.”

Special Secretary to the Prime Minister Talifilu echoed the Prime Minister’s remarks, emphasising the importance of unity and cooperation in advancing national development.