Solomon Islands Government urged to come clean on AFP proposal

Solomon Islands Parliamentary Opposition Group has urged the Government to clear the air over claims Australian Federal Police (AFP) is intending to be permanently stationed in Solomon Islands.

In a statement, the Opposition Group said the Government must come clean on whether the claims are true or not.

“The Government needs to be reminded that any permanent stationing of AFP in the country would generate a lot of debate; most of which will border on our sovereignty and the capabilities of our own police force. Such decisions needs proper consultation between the Government, stakeholders and the people at large,” the Opposition added.

As such, the Parliamentary Opposition Office also calls on the Government to consider a national consultation should AFP are indeed given an invitation to bring in AFP after RAMSI leaves.

“A national consultation is fundamental to get the views of the people so that AFP’s presence in the country will not stir up mixed feelings,” the statement says.

Meanwhile, the Parliamentary Opposition Office has urged RAMSI’s cabinet sub-committee to produce a comprehensive report that should include a roadmap forward after RAMSI.

The Opposition Group said this report should also indicate whether or not such undertaking is necessary.

“A comprehensive report by the cabinet sub- committee on RAMSI might also provide answers to peoples’ queries such as the impacts of RAMSI on our law and order institutions and whether or not the capacity trainings for locals are effective and sustainable,” the Opposition Office stated.

The Parliamentary Opposition emphasized that such comprehensive report should be made ready before the next sitting of parliament.

“The Opposition would also like the Government to give a full report on this during the next sitting so that our people can be fully informed of what the Government has done and is planning to do regarding this issue,” it said.


SOURCE: SOLOMON STAR