By Georgina Maka’a
Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) has welcomed the Government’s appointment of a three-member tribunal to investigate allegations against suspended Police Commissioner Ian Vaevaso.
However, TSI said James Apaniai, who is currently the chairman of Solomon Islands Independent Commission Against Corruption (SIICAC), should withdraw from the tribunal over a potential conflict of interest.
In a statement, TSI commended the Matthew Wale-led Government for moving to address allegations that have remained unresolved for an extended period.
It said the tribunal offers an opportunity to deal with the matter fairly and in accordance with the principles of natural justice.
However, TSI expressed concern over Apaniai’s appointment to the tribunal, noting that the allegations against Vaevaso had previously been referred to SIICAC.
It argued that, as SIICAC Chairman, Apaniai oversees an institution responsible for investigating corruption allegations and could therefore face a conflict of interest if he also sits in judgment on matters connected to the tribunal.
TSI said the overlapping roles could undermine both the tribunal’s independence and public confidence in SIICAC.
The organisation called on Apaniai to recuse himself from the tribunal to protect the integrity and impartiality of both institutions.
“Allowing overlapping roles in investigative and adjudicative processes compromises these values and risks eroding public trust in the fight against corruption,” TSI said.
It also urged the Government to review the tribunal’s composition to ensure the process remains transparent, impartial and free from any perceived conflicts of interest.
TSI said while accountability in public office is essential, all parties must be afforded due process and natural justice to ensure confidence in the tribunal’s findings and uphold the rule of law.
Vaevaso was appointed to the top police job by the last Manele government.
He was just two months on the job when the Wale government issued him his suspension letter.
This was over allegations he removed confiscated methamphetamine from secure storage, kept it in his private office, and subsequently oversaw its clandestine destruction at sea in February 2024 without proper forensic oversight.
An internal investigation and a recommendation from prosecutors to suspend and charge him was ignored.
