New Ombudsman Sworn-In to Office
Honiara, 14 October 2026 – A new Ombudsman for Solomon Islands was sworn in to office this morning at Government House.
Mr Dick Stanley Pirione took his Oaths of Office and Allegiance before His Excellency the Governor General, Sir David Tiva Kapu, at Government House.
Mr Pirione’s appointment fills the vacancy created following the passing of former Ombudsman, the late Mr Fred Fakarii, earlier this year.
Mr Pirione is a seasoned public servant and former Permanent Secretary who has served in various Ministries. He brings with him a wealth of experience, institutional knowledge and deep understanding of the public service machinery and governance systems in Solomon Islands.
He has under his belt 25 years of professional experience serving across the SIG Public Service. Of these, 17 years of professional experience is at the executive level. He therefore brings into the office of the Ombudsman the right leadership qualities sought for such office.
Speaking after the swearing-in ceremony, the Governor-General congratulated Mr Pirione on his appointment and urged him to discharge his duties with impartiality, integrity and independence as required by the Constitution.
The Office of the Ombudsman is established under Chapter IX of the Constitution of Solomon Islands. It is an independent constitutional office mandated to safeguard good governance, fairness and accountability in the public service.
The key functions of the Ombudsman are to:
- Investigate complaints of maladministration, injustice, abuse of power and unfair treatment by public officials and Government agencies;
- Investigate cases of corruption, improper conduct and discriminatory practices within the public service;
- Promote good governance, transparency and accountability in public administration;
- Ensure public officials act in accordance with law, regulations and principles of natural justice; and
- Report findings and make recommendations to Parliament, the Prime Minister and relevant authorities for remedial action.
The Ombudsman plays a critical role as a watchdog for the people – providing citizens with an accessible avenue to seek redress when aggrieved by Government decisions, while at the same time helping the public service to improve its systems and uphold ethical standards.
The Government congratulates Mr Pirione on his appointment and wishes him well in his new role.
New Ombudsman Dick Stanley Pirione with His Excellency the Governor General Sir David Tiva Kapu
New Ombudsman Dick Stanley Pirione takes his Oath before the Governor General
-ENDS-