SOLOMON Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale has rejected a pay rise for parliamentarians, saying his government will replace the current salary-setting system with an independent body covering the public sector.
The move follows a decision by the Parliamentary Entitlements Commission (PEC) to increase MPs’ emoluments.
Prime Minister Wale said his government is committed to constitutional reforms that would abolish the existing PEC framework and establish a Higher Salaries Commission responsible for determining the remuneration of all public sector employees.
“This reform reflects our commitment to fairness, transparency and consistency across the public service,” Wale said.
“Salary decisions should not be isolated to one group but considered within the broader context of the entire public sector.”
The proposed constitutional amendment is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, with Wale saying the process will require extensive consultations, technical work and legislative approval.
Until then, he urged the Parliamentary Entitlements Commission to consider the financial pressures facing Solomon Islanders when making decisions on MPs’ salaries.
“The realities facing our people must remain at the forefront of any decision-making process,” he said.
In a show of personal leadership, Wale also announced that he would forgo the salary increase recently awarded by the commission.
“This is a time for responsible leadership. It is important to show restraint and solidarity with our people during these challenging economic times,” he said.
Wale said the Government remains committed to reforms that promote equity, fiscal responsibility and the long-term interests of all Solomon Islanders.
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