By Eliza Kukutu
UNDP N POM
PRIME Minister Hon. Matthew Wale has urged the need for reforms to strengthen the autonomy of Solomon Islands’ Parliament.
The Prime Minister highlighted during a meeting with UNDP international consultant Dr John Patterson, who is supporting work on a new strategy for Parliament.
Prime Minister Wale said the autonomy of Parliament should be the basis of the new strategy.
He said Parliament must have greater control over its own finances and administration, while remaining accountable through Parliament’s normal budget process.
“Anything that gives power, autonomy and control over parliamentary service and finances is good,” the Prime Minister said.
He said strengthening Parliament is essential to creating stronger checks and balances between the three arms of government.
“We want national institutions to be strong,” he adds.
Prime Minister Wale also supported the idea of an independent Parliamentary Budget Office to provide Parliament with independent advice on government spending and proposed policies.
The Prime Minister stressed the need to move quickly.
“I’m a man on a mission. I want to get things done.”
He said the Government wants the necessary legislation progressed as soon as possible so that parliament can be made a stronger institution.
[ENDS]
– OPMC PRESS SECRETARIAT
