Death in military custody in Fiji
A murder investigation has been launched in Fiji following the death of Jone Vakarisi who died recently whilst in military custody. This comes after an image Vakarisi’s death certificate was circulated online. This led to competing claims as to what the cause of death had been. Vakarisi was reportedly connected to criminal networks within Fiji. Joint police/military operations have intensified as Fiji grapples with a serious drugs crisis.
Solomon Islands political instability continues
The political impasse in Solomon Islands has yet to be resolved. Earlier this month, the Opposition (which claims 28 members) won their case in the High Court and Prime Minister Manele was ordered to summon Parliament within three days. However, that has been stalled by the courts pending an appeal, with the judgment expected on May 1st. Meanwhile, David Gina MP has reportedly decamped from the Opposition and been sworn in as Minister for Rural Development in the Manele government
Inquiry launched into defence recruitment in Papua New Guinea
An inquiry into PNG Defence Force recruitment practices has been launched by the country’s Prime Minister, James Marape. This comes after a prolonged period of tension and instability arising from claims that the recruitment process was plagued by nepotism and other irregularities. The scandal forced the defence minister, Billy Joseph, to step aside. A senior member of the Australian Defence Force is part of the three-person inquiry team.
Ministers to meet as energy and transportation concerns grow.
Preparations are underway for the 6th Pacific Regional Energy and Transport Ministers’ Meeting to be held in Port Moresby in early May. This comes as countries across the region continue to feel the impacts of the war in the Middle East on their energy security and connectivity. Regional approaches, including activating emergency measures under the Biketawa Declaration, are under consideration as the global disruption shows no signs of abating.
About the author: Dr Tess Newton Cain is Principal Consultant at Sustineo. She is also a distinguished academic and researcher with over 25 years of unmatched experience in delivering exceptional policy, research, and analysis to drive strategic development across the Pacific islands region.
