Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Jeremiah Manele MP has described the media’s role as a “vital bridge” in the Pacific nation’s democracy, stating that editorial independence remains a priority for his Government For National Unity & Transformation GNUT) administration.
Mr Manele made the remarks when speaking at the World Press Freedom Day Breakfast Event, organised by the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) and the Solomon Islands Women In News Media (SIWINM) on Monday 4th May 2026.
World Press Freedom Day is celebrated annually on May 3rd. This year’s event was centered on the theme: “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Security”.
Journalism Beyond the “Race to be First”
Addressing a gathering of local journalists and diplomatic officials, Prime Minister Manele highlighted the challenges of the modern digital landscape, where speed often eclipses accuracy.
“In this environment, journalism is no longer defined by being first, it is defined by being right,” Manele stated.
“While anyone can share information, not everyone applies the discipline of verification”.
He noted that for a nation like the Solomon Islands, which has a lived history of internal conflict where the media carries a “unique burden” to protect a fragile peace.
He also cautioned that while words have the power to build a nation, they can also “tear it apart” if used irresponsibly.
Defending the National Broadcaster
A significant portion of the Prime Minister’s keynote address focused on the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC).
Manele addressed international reports and local discussions suggesting the national broadcaster had fallen under the direct control of his office.
- Financial Support vs. Editorial Control: Manele argued that government funding (subvention) is a “commitment to public service” rather than a “purchase of loyalty”.
- Geographic Necessity: He described the SIBC as a “lifeline” for an archipelago that is 98% ocean, where scattered communities are united primarily by airwaves.
- Editorial Firewall: The Prime Minister pledged to “protect the editorial firewall” that allows SIBC journalists to report without political interference.
Infrastructure and Media Literacy
The Prime Minister also highlighted the government’s National Connectivity Program, which has seen the completion of more than 60 telecommunications towers to expand information access across rural communities and outer islands.
However, he warned that increased connectivity must be matched by strengthened media literacy to combat the rapid spread of misinformation.
Engagement with International Indices
Acknowledging recent international press freedom rankings, Manele expressed a desire for global assessments to reflect “ground-level facts” rather than “perceptions formed from a distance”.
- Balanced Critique: He stated that a government “that only listens to praise is a government that stops growing”.
- Call for Accuracy: He urged international bodies to ensure their reporting cycles reflect current realities, noting that these rankings directly impact how development partners perceive the nation.
Support for Women in Media
The Prime Minister also touched on the specific hurdles faced by women in the industry, including harassment and social barriers to career advancement.
He called for a “shared responsibility” between the government, media associations, and the community to address these systemic challenges.
As the Solomon Islands approaches its 50th anniversary of independence in 2028, Manele concluded by reminding journalists that their “pen and lens” will define how future generations remember the nation’s progress.
[ENDS]
