The Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) has defended its SBD$208,000-a-month lease for new offices at Lengakiki, west Honiara.
The property was owned by the family of Prime Minister Matthew Wale, but the lease was negotiated when Wale was the leader of Opposition in 2025.
The ministry said the move to rent the property was necessary to address deteriorating conditions and limited space at its existing headquarters also at Lengakiki.
“The relocation was approved by Government and provided for in the 2026 National Budget,” a statement from the ministry said.
“The new premises cover approximately 900 square metres and are expected to accommodate more than 80 officers,” it added.
“Under the tenancy agreement, the premises were leased for 12 months from 1 December 2025 at SBD$208,000 per month.
“Rental payments for the first and second quarters of 2026 have been processed.”
The Ministry’s response came after Opposition leader Manasseh Sogavare questioned the rental deal, asking why it took a while for the ministry of move in although rental payment has already been paid.
The ministry explained that although the tenancy commenced on 1 December 2025, MMERE did not immediately occupy the premises because essential works were required before the building could function as a suitable government office.
“These works included internet and telecommunications cabling, telephone connections and other operational requirements.
“Inspections and assessments were undertaken by the Government Housing Division (GHD) of the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey (MLHS), the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and relevant ICT authorities.
“MMERE subsequently began moving into the premises towards the end of the second quarter of 2026, after the necessary works had reached a satisfactory stage.”
The Ministry said the delay was therefore related to preparing the premises for occupation and did not constitute a cancellation or termination of the tenancy.
The new premises are located next to MMERE’s existing headquarters, where the Mines Division and Geological Survey Division continue to operate.
“The proximity of the two locations allows MMERE to maintain management coordination and operational continuity during the transition.
“Under Government accommodation arrangements, the GHD/MLHS is the lead agency responsible for Government office accommodation, including identifying and leasing properties, undertaking property due diligence and preparing lease documentation.”
The ministry said on 28 November 2025, it requested supporting documentation from THM Logistics Limited, the landlord. THM Logistics is a registered company owned by Tamra Wale, daughter of Prime Minister Wale.
“MMERE understands that the requested documents were subsequently submitted to GHD/MLHS.”
The Ministry said it was not advised by GHD/MLHS that the landlord’s documentation or authority to lease the premises was deficient.
“MMERE therefore proceeded on the basis that the required Government processes and due diligence had been completed by the responsible agencies.
“Questions relating to property ownership, registration of the lease or the landlord’s legal authority should be directed to GHD/MLHS and other relevant authorities responsible for those matters.”
MMERE said it would fully cooperate with any review undertaken by GHD/MLHS, the Attorney-General’s Chambers, the Ministry of Finance and Treasury, or relevant auditors.
No Separate MMERE Tender Process
MMERE also clarified that Government office accommodation is administered through the GHD/MLHS under established Government accommodation arrangements.
“The leasing of Government office premises is therefore not conducted through MMERE’s own procurement or tender process.
“However, all rental payments remain subject to Government financial controls, budget authority and the required certification and payment processes.
Value For Money And
Future Options
MMERE said it acknowledges the public interest in the tenancy arrangement and supports an evidence-based review of the circumstances surrounding the lease.
“The Ministry also recognises that long-term commercial leasing may not always represent the most economical option for Government.
“As part of future planning, Government-owned premises within the MMERE precinct could be assessed as a longer-term alternative to commercial leasing.
“However, no decision has been made to purchase the Manasuta Avenue property.
“MMERE’s position is that the relocation was Government-approved and budgeted, the tenancy was entered into through the established Government accommodation process, and the Ministry relied on the responsible Government agencies to undertake the necessary property due diligence and leasing arrangements.
“The Ministry remains committed to transparency, accountability, value for money and providing its officers with a safe, functional and appropriate working environment.”