Hello, my name is Matthew Varley Commissioner of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF)
(Alternatively: Halo, Nem blo me Matthew Varley, Me Commissioner blong Polis blo Iu -Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF)
The RSIPF’s security operation for the National General Election will continue until after the formation of a new Government and election of a new Prime Minister.
The focus of our Police Operation has now shifted to be on Honiara and Guadalcanal Province.
This is to ensure that the peace and security we experienced during the main Election is maintained through this important period.
Your police will be out on the streets doing community engagements in markets, churches, bus stops and settlements all around Honiara. Traffic checks will be conducted to ensure that our roads are safe, day and night. We will also have high visibility police patrols around our city and sea patrols on our waters.
I call on all citizens, including chiefs, elders, church leaders and all women, men and youth leaders to assist your Police in ensuring that our communities remain safe and peaceful.
Let us continue to show respect for one another and maintain peace like we did during the main election. This is part of Solomon Islands traditional culture. Do not allow any disagreements about the outcomes of the election to cause divisions amongst us.
I also want to appeal directly to all new elected Members of Parliament and your supporters and political party members to remember your responsibilities as leaders during this period of political negotiation. I appeal to you to engage in your consultations peacefully and lawfully. No-one wants go back to the past where violence and intimidation was associated with the formation of government and the election of the Prime Minister. My message at this time remains the same – people may want political change but no-one wants political violence. And remember, no one is above the law.
Lastly, I remind everyone - If you have evidence of any allegations of corruption or electoral related offences, please provide your evidence to the Electoral Commission, the Electoral Office or report it to the Police.
Let’s move forward peacefully during this next crucial stage to build our nation for a better future for all. Let’s work together for a safer Hapi Isles.
Tagio Tumas.