The Solomon Islands Government has reiterated its firm stance against the commercialization of citizenship, reaffirming that the country is “not for sale.” This statement follows the circulation of unauthorized advertisements falsely claiming that a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme has already been launched in the country.
In a statement issued by the Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT), McFaddean Aoraunisaka, Chief of Staff and Head of Policy, made it clear that while the government recognizes the economic potential of a well-managed CBI programme, it will not allow Solomon Islands citizenship to be sold in a manner that compromises the nation’s sovereignty, dignity, or identity.
“Citizenship is a sacred bond between an individual and our nation,” Aoraunisaka said. “It shall never be commercialized in a way that undermines the sovereignty and national pride of the Solomon Islands.”
The GNUT emphasized that the country’s CBI programme, if pursued, is still in the early stages of development. The government has been carefully studying global experiences with CBI schemes, particularly those of the Republic of Vanuatu, to learn from both successes and challenges. This process aims to ensure any future programme would be transparent, secure, and fully aligned with the country’s Constitution and national interests.
Despite these efforts, certain foreign agencies and private entities have reportedly attempted to capitalize on the prospect of the Solomon Islands launching a CBI programme, with misleading claims circulating that the programme is already operational. The government has strongly rejected these claims, categorically stating that no CBI programme exists at this time.
“Until officially launched through the proper legal channels, there is no valid way to acquire Solomon Islands citizenship by investment,” Aoraunisaka clarified. He further warned that anyone found making false claims or running fraudulent activities in the name of the Solomon Islands would face legal action.
The government also highlighted international concerns over CBI programmes, particularly criticisms from Western countries and regional organizations such as the European Union. Aoraunisaka argued that these concerns are often unfair and undermine the development aspirations of small and emerging economies like the Solomon Islands.
The current global political climate, especially changes under the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump, which has imposed broader travel bans and restrictions on countries with CBI programmes, is also being taken into account. The Solomon Islands Government is carefully considering the implications of such policies to safeguard the country’s long-term interests.
In addition, the GNUT condemned efforts by certain foreign entities to exert undue influence over the potential CBI programme. The government emphasized that any future partnerships related to the CBI programme would be tightly regulated and conducted strictly on Solomon Islands’ terms, with full control remaining in the hands of the nation.
“Any partnership with external agents will be transparent, regulated, and entirely on our terms,” Aoraunisaka affirmed. “We will retain full sovereign control over all citizenship matters.”
The government has warned individuals and organizations to ignore any unauthorized solicitations or representations related to the CBI programme. The public is encouraged to be vigilant and report any fraudulent activities linked to these misleading claims.
