Prime Minister Matthew Wale has announced he will forgo the recent salary increase awarded to Members of Parliament by the Parliamentary Entitlements Commission (PEC), describing the move as an act of personal leadership and accountability.
The latest pay rise, which came into effect on 1 April 2026, was determined by the Parliamentary Entitlements Commission (PEC) before Wale came to power following the change of government in May 2026.
The pay increase could see Wale earning an annual gross salary of SBD$454,659.43 or a net fortnightly salary of just over SBD$12,000.
Announcing his decision, Prime Minister Wale, currently on a state visit to Japan, reaffirmed his long-standing policy position on how parliamentary salaries should be determined, saying the current system requires fundamental reform.
He said his Government remains committed to introducing constitutional changes to replace the existing Parliamentary Entitlements Commission with a broader and more equitable Higher Salaries Commission.
The proposed commission would be responsible for determining the remuneration of all public sector employees, rather than only Members of Parliament.
“This reform reflects our commitment to fairness, transparency and consistency across the public service,” Prime Minister Wale said.
“Salary decisions should not be isolated to one group but considered within the broader context of the entire public sector.”
The Prime Minister said the constitutional amendment is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, allowing sufficient time for consultations, technical work and the necessary legislative processes.
Until then, he urged the Parliamentary Entitlements Commission to exercise careful judgment when considering MPs’ remuneration and to take into account the rising cost of living faced by Solomon Islanders.
“The realities facing our people must remain at the forefront of any decision-making process,” he said.
Explaining his decision to reject the pay increase, Wale said it was important for leaders to demonstrate restraint during a period of economic hardship.
“This is a time for responsible leadership. I believe it is important to show restraint and solidarity with our people during these challenging economic times,” the Prime Minister said.
He added that his Government remains committed to reforms that promote equity, fiscal responsibility and the long-term interests of all Solomon Islanders.
