Former Chief of Staff Returns to Solomon Islands Amid Controversy

A senior official in the Solomon Islands government has returned to his role just weeks after being dismissed by Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele. Mack Faddean Aoraunisaka, who served as Manele’s chief of staff, was fired on July 3, 2023, following the revelation of a controversial deal involving the companies SI Group and Growmax. The arrangement, which pertained to a shrimp farming project, was made without the Prime Minister’s approval and has raised significant concerns about governance and transparency.

The deal, signed by Commerce Minister Jaimie Vokia and the two consulting firms, aimed to establish a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in the Solomon Islands. This agreement would offer SI Group and Growmax various commercial privileges, including tax exemptions. Upon learning of the deal, Manele reassigned Vokia and dismissed Aoraunisaka, while the Foreign Investment Division (FID) barred SI Group from operating in the country, citing violations of local laws regarding foreign investment.

Despite this setback, reports indicate that SI Group and Growmax have continued their operations in the Solomon Islands. On July 15, 2023, the companies met with Fisheries Minister Bradley Tovosia, suggesting ongoing engagement with the local government. Aoraunisaka, now acting as the “local authorised representative” for SI Group, expressed dismay at the negative perception of his employer. He stated, “It is unfortunate the manner in which SI has been treated… it undermines the Solomon Islands’ status as a welcoming and business-friendly destination for foreign investment.”

In defense of the companies, Aoraunisaka emphasized their efforts to work closely with the FID to resolve the situation amicably. He also referred to a statement from Tovosia, which purportedly supported the firms, although the Prime Minister’s office could not confirm its authenticity.

Adding to the ongoing narrative, SI Group sponsored a concert on July 12, 2023, featuring popular dancehall reggae artist Busy Signal. Aoraunisaka described the event as a success, noting that it attracted over 50,000 attendees. This concert was intended to raise funds for the Kadere Party, led by Minister Vokia. During a press conference following the event, party member Martin Housanau defended SI Group, stating that the concert was a “non-commissioned activity” and did not provide any direct benefit to the company.

Aoraunisaka further addressed the backlash SI Group has faced, claiming that a small but vocal minority on social media continues to spread negativity. He stated, “We need positive vibration to move forward. Bad vibe is bad. Good vibe is what the soul, the land, and the nation wants.” His comments underscore a broader sentiment about fostering a positive business environment in the Solomon Islands.

As the situation unfolds, the future of SI Group’s operations in the Solomon Islands remains uncertain. The local government faces the challenge of balancing international investment interests with compliance to national laws. The impact on the Solomon Islands’ reputation as a business destination will likely depend on how these issues are managed in the coming weeks.