Solomon Islands new governor general has called for an end to what he describes as the 'handout mentality' in the country.
Reverend David Vunagi took up his office on 7th July, Solomon Islands Independence Day.
His maiden speech on Monday marked the opening of the second meeting of the eleventh parliament.
Koroi Hawkins listened in.
Retiring Solomon Islands Anglican church leader David Vunagi.
Photo: Anglican News
Transcript
The sitting started with both the Solomon Islands and British national anthems played by the police brass band.
Before the new Queen's representative to Solomon Islands, Reverend Vunagi delivered the 'speech from the throne'.
"To all members of the national parliament congratulations on your successful election. Your people have mandated you to represent them for the next four years . This is an awesome responsibility that needs some guidance and clear vision. I trust that you will discharge your duties with due diligence and integrity."
As well as MPs David Vunagi called on all Solomon Islanders to remember their individual and collective duty to nation building.
"We must be vigilant as custodians of our natural resources and be good role models to our youth. We should not be reliant on aid donors and politicians to provide cash handouts. This handout mentality must stop. It is slowly."
The governor general then outlined the government's policy statement making some key announcements including the intention to create a national research institute and this update on work to establish the country's first anti-corruption commission.
"Corruption is rife in our country and is a cancerous tumour that is eating away at the fabric of our life. The government is pleased to announce that the establishment and launch of the Solomon Islands Independent Commission Against Corruption is on track. We are confident that the Solomon Islands Commission Against Corruption office will be up and running before the end of this year."
The governor general wrapped up his speech thanking international donor partners for their support to the development of Solomon Islands and acknowledging all rural communities listening in for their support.
Solomon Islands parliament continues sitting this week. The main business on the order paper this morning was the tabling of the annual reports for state owned utilities companies and the central bank of Solomon Islands.
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