Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has moved to clarify the government’s position on the management of the nation’s sufferance wharves and Leeroy Wharf, following weeks of heightened public discussion on the issue.
In an official statement tonight, the Prime Minister said he welcomed the public interest, noting that these facilities are central to Solomon Islands’ economy, transport system, and national security.
“It is important that Solomon Islanders understand how these matters are being addressed,” Manele said.
Under the Customs and Excise Act, sufferance wharves are legally regulated facilities where goods can be loaded and unloaded, with the Comptroller of Customs empowered to appoint such wharves.
Mr Manele emphasized that any future decisions regarding their operation would be based on evidence, proper procedures, and the national interest.
He also pointed to the constitutional principle of collective Cabinet responsibility, stressing that all Cabinet decisions must be implemented.
The Prime Minister revealed that in June 2025, Cabinet approved the creation of a Special Committee Taskforce to review operations of the sufferance wharves and Leeroy Wharf.
However, the Taskforce was only formally established on 8 September 2025 by the newly appointed Minister, who simultaneously revoked an earlier directive that had suspended all sufferance wharves except Leeroy Wharf.
As a result, normal operations at the wharves have resumed while the review process gets underway. The Taskforce’s mandate includes assessing trade, revenue, and national security implications, with a strong focus on addressing growing concerns over illicit drugs.
Manele also addressed questions surrounding his earlier remarks about the reshuffle of the former Finance Minister and comments made by the new Finance Minister.
“To clarify, ministerial reshuffles are the prerogative of the Prime Minister. While public statements may vary in style, the government’s position remains consistent,” he explained.
The Prime Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to ensuring that all wharves, including Leeroy Wharf, function in ways that support trade, protect national security, and comply with the law.
“I remain committed to ensuring that sufferance wharves and Leeroy Wharf operate in a manner that supports trade, protects national security, and complies with legal requirements,” Manele concluded.