Minister of Finance and Treasury and Central Honiara MP, Hon. Gordon Darcy Lilo
By Agnes Menanopo
Minister of Finance and Treasury and Central Honiara MP, Hon. Gordon Darcy Lilo has defended Solomon Islands’ democratic system, calling on citizens and the media to exercise freedom of expression responsibly and respect the rule of law.
Lilo told the media today that Solomon Islands has a robust political system and that democracy continues to operate openly and fairly.
“But at the same time, you have that freedom of expression that you have, but express it in a very responsible way,” he said.
Lilo was also asked about reports linking him to the resignations of three ministers, but rejected suggestions that he was a key player behind the developments.
He criticised what he described as irresponsible reporting by sections of the media.
“I want to say to the media that it is so irresponsible. That bit of that article and how you generate an issue out of it is absolutely irresponsible,” he said.
“I want to say to you, go and correct yourself and then get things right.”
Lilo said the country’s democratic system remains strong and urged the media to respect the political process.
Asked what the GREAT Coalition Government would do following the resignation of the three ministers, he said the process should be allowed to take its course.
He described political change as part of a fluid democracy and said Solomon Islands’ developing political party system would continue to evolve.
Lilo also stressed the importance of responsibility among politicians, the media and the public.
“I think that’s the key message: responsibility, irresponsibility and shared responsibility,” he said.
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