Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has voiced significant concerns regarding the unrest at the Gold Ridge Mine site, urging all involved parties to maintain calm, exercise restraint, and prioritize the safety of the community. The Prime Minister is aware of the damage inflicted on machinery at the mine and has highlighted the importance of engaging in dialogue, fostering mutual understanding, and cooperating to address the situation.
In his statement, PM Manele asserted the importance of land to the nation’s identity and way of life, acknowledging that while acts of property destruction are unlawful, they stem from intense emotions and a strong desire to be heard. “As a nation, land is central to our identity and way of life. These actions reflect strong emotions, and to address them constructively, we must come together for dialogue to seek lawful and customary solutions,” he stated.
The Prime Minister has called upon Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML), local chiefs, community leaders, and the youth of Central Guadalcanal to uphold peace and avert any further escalation of tensions. He has encouraged patience as efforts to chart a respectful and understanding path forward continue. This approach emphasizes the importance of community cooperation in overcoming challenges and fostering a more united future.