Opposition hits out at gov’t bullying tactics against NCW

OPPOSITION Leader Hon Matthew Wale has lashed out at the government’s bullying tactics against the National Council of Women (NCW).

In a statement today, Hon Wale said the ministry of women, youth, children and family affairs move to axe funding support for NCW is clearly a political directive from the Office of the Prime Minister & Cabinet to punish NCW.

The Opposition Leader said the reasons for non-compliance given by the ministry is a cover-up.

“The NCW was very vocal against government decisions on the recent security treaty and other national issues. It was clear there stand has irked the responsible minister and Cabinet who rallied against NCW in Parliament recently. That was the reason why NCW is being punished now,” he said.

Hon Wale said his office is aware that the PS of the ministry of women acted following a verbal warning was issued from OPMC recently.

The Opposition Leader said the Government’s attitude in threatening and punishing individuals and organisations that speaks out against government decisions is dishonourable.

“We are a democratic country. Individuals and organisations have the right to share opposing views against the government unless we have already adopted a communist style of governance that we are not aware of,” Hon Wale said.

He said the government’s attitude is obvious that they do not want people or organisations to oppose them and they will do anything in their powers to shut people up.

“This is an attitude of a totalitarian leadership and government. The government must be reminded as we approach the independence celebrations next week that Solomon Islands is a sovereign and democratic country and people have the right to express their without fear or intimidation,” he said.

ENDS//