Inmate Gibson Kay Reconciles with Victim’s Family

GPPOL Two, Tetere – Sunday, 9 November 2025: Inmate Gibson Kay has reconciled with Mr. Gaman Galio, father of the victim, and their family in a ceremony facilitated by Prison Fellowship Solomon Islands (PFSI).

The reconciliation was conducted in relation to offence 139(1)(b): sexual intercourse with a child under 15 years, committed on 20 April 2022 at Tusu Village, South Choiseul, in Choiseul Province.

Kay is currently serving his sentence and is classified as a low-profile inmate at Tetere Rehabilitation Correctional Centre following his conviction.

The reconciliation was made possible through PFSI’s mediation efforts between both the offender’s and the victim’s families. During the ceremony, the families came together face-to-face, sharing words of acceptance, forgiveness, and restoration. As a symbolic gesture of remorse, the offender’s family presented $700.00 to the victim’s family.

In his statement during the reconciliation, inmate Kay expressed deep remorse, saying:
“I admit the disrespectful manner in which I acted and deeply regret my behaviour. What I did was unacceptable, even within my own family. I am committed to changing my behaviour through the programs I am undertaking here. I understand that forgiveness is your choice, and I will respect whatever you decide.”

Responding on behalf of the victim’s family, Mr. Jeffery Sipele expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reconcile:
“We are grateful for this opportunity to step forward as a family and offer our forgiveness. Reconciliation and forgiveness are the way forward in rebuilding our relationship with the offender and his family.”

Mr. Sipele reaffirmed the family’s support for the reconciliation process:
“From our hearts, we forgive inmate Gibson Kay for his actions and the incident caused to our daughter. Today, we accept him back into our community and pray that his genuine repentance leads to meaningful change.”

He further acknowledged CSSI and PFSI for facilitating the process in a peaceful and meaningful manner.

Mr. Gabriel Bate’e of PFSI shared spiritual reflections on the biblical foundation of reconciliation, referencing the Sycamore Tree Project, inspired by the story of Zacchaeus:
“This story teaches us that reconciliation is about restoration—not just saying sorry, but actively seeking to restore what was broken. Just as Zacchaeus chose transformation, we too are invited to turn toward healing.”
He also cited 2 Corinthians 5:18, reminding those present of the Christian call to reconciliation.

Tetere Correctional Centre (TCC) Commandant, Mr. Charles Noli, emphasized the significance of the reconciliation, noting that a long-standing breach had finally been mended.
“This signifies that peace has prevailed as we contribute to restoring lives and building a safer community and nation.” he said.

The ceremony was witnessed by representatives from PFSI, TCC Commandant and staff, Rev. Kendrick Kasa of the Wesley United Church, Christian fellowship members, and families of both the victim and the offender.

As part of the reconciliation, both parties signed Certificates of Commitment, pledging to uphold the reconciliation and continue fostering peace and restoration moving forward.

Inmate Gibson Kay sign off the Reconciliation Certificate

Wesley United Church Minister Rev. Kendrick Kasa sign off the Reconciliation Certificate

Inmate Gibson Kay delivered his apology remarks to the victim family

Mr Jeffery Sipele delivered his remarks on behalf of the victim family

Ends//

CSSI Press