GREAT Coalition Drives Major Review of Provincial Government Act
THE GREAT Coalition Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening provincial governance through a long-overdue review of the Provincial Government Act 1997.
The Minister for the Ministry of Provincial Government & Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) Hon Lazarus Rinah in his speech in Parliament this week said, the review is at the centre of ongoing reforms within the Ministry.
He said the review of the provincial government system has been stalled for many years, limiting the ability of provinces to effectively respond to modern governance challenges.
However, he said under the decisive leadership and political will of the GREAT Coalition Government, this critical review is now progressing with renewed purpose and direction.
“The reform will be guided by a clear and strategic two-stage approach. In the immediate term, transitional amendments to the existing Act will be advanced for Cabinet consideration, aimed at addressing urgent operational gaps and improving functionality within provincial administrations,” he said.
At the same time, Minister Rinah said the Ministry will undertake a broader and more comprehensive review of the Provincial Government Act 1997.
He said this second phase will involve an extensive literature review and the development of a new policy framework.
It will be designed to reflect contemporary realities, emerging challenges and the future aspirations of provincial governments and communities across the country.
Hon. Rinah emphasised that this approach ensures both immediate improvements and long-term transformation, enabling provincial governments to operate with greater clarity, accountability and effectiveness.
“This reform marks a significant step toward building stronger, more responsive provincial institutions that are better equipped to deliver services and improve the lives of Solomon Islanders throughout the provinces,” he said.
END///