Civic space is rated as ‘narrowed’ by the CIVICUS Monitor. Among concerns previously documented are threats to ban Facebook in the country and attempts to vilify civil society as well as LGBTQI+ groups. The authorities have also restricted access to information, including requests from the media. Peaceful protests have also been dispersed.
Peaceful Assembly
Former provincial leader and China critic charged for organising protests
Outspoken former Malaita province premier Daniel Suidani was arrested and charged in October 2024 in relation to unlawful assemblies and protests in 2021.
The Malaita provincial leader was arrested, along with his then political advisor Celsus Talifilu. Both men are alleged to have masterminded a number of unlawful assemblies and protests in Auki, Malaita provincial capital, in 2021 and have been released on bail. The trial is due to commence in April 2025.
The protests were carried out by the Malaita for Democracy (M4D) movement against the decision by the former government to sever diplomatic ties with Taipei in favour of Beijing.
The duo face two counts of unlawful assembly, contrary to section 74 and section 21 of the Solomon Islands Penal Code.
From 2019 until his removal as premier in a motion of no confidence in 2023, Suidani openly criticised the national government for cutting ties with Taiwan and establishing bilateral relations with China. He also objected to the national government signing a controversial security pact with China in 2022.
Suidani supporters have accused the national government of bankrolling the motion of no confidence that eventually removed him, an allegation that Honiara has denied. No confidence votes in Solomon Islands are often used as a tactic to target political opponents. He was re-elected in the 2024 election as a Malaita provincial member for the West Baegu-Fataleka ward.
Suidani believes the charges brought against him are politically motivated. He said he will be fighting the charges in court. He added he would not be swayed from his political stance by the latest attempts to prosecute him.