Provincial Premiers in Solomon Islands and their representatives have renewed calls for meaningful reforms to the Provincial Government Act, during a meeting with Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele in Honiara on Saturday, 31 January 2026.
The meeting followed a formal submission by the provincial leaders raising long-standing concerns about how provincial governments operate under the current Provincial Government Act 1997.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Manele acknowledged the issues raised and commended the premiers for travelling to Honiara at their own expense, describing the move as a clear indication of the seriousness with which they view the future of provincial governance.
Addressing speculation about legislative changes, the Prime Minister clarified that no Bill to amend or replace the Provincial Government Act has been submitted to Cabinet. He stressed that while consultations with premiers have already occurred, further input from provincial leaders remains essential before any proposal is advanced, to ensure reforms are practical, durable, and broadly supported.
Key concerns raised by the premiers centred on the scope of devolved powers, revenue and fiscal arrangements, and the lack of clarity in roles and responsibilities between national and provincial governments—issues they say continue to affect service delivery and effective governance at the provincial level.
Prime Minister Manele said he would take the matters raised to the Minister for Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening, so the views of provincial leaders are fully considered in the Government’s ongoing work.
He further signalled a preference for a comprehensive review of the Provincial Government Act rather than piecemeal amendments, noting that wide and inclusive consultations with provinces and other stakeholders would be critical to shaping any future legislative framework.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the National Government’s commitment to working closely with provincial leaders, saying any reforms must reflect the realities faced by provinces and respond to the needs of communities across the country.
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