Parliamentary Opposition embarks on civic engagement program

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IN a first of its kind, the Parliamentary Opposition Group has initiated a civic engagement and accountability outreach program.

The initiative is aimed at strengthening democratic governance in the Solomon Islands by improving public engagement, empowering communities, and ensuring government accountability.

Press Secretary to the Leader of Opposition Douglas Marau explained that this initiative aims to bridge the gap between leaders and the people, fostering transparency, participation, and policy oversight.

Mr Marau said the role of the Parliamentary Opposition is more than just a political watchdog but also as an alternative government.

“As part of this program the Parliamentary Opposition Group will be visiting the provinces and dialoguing with key stakeholders including provincial governments, civil societies, identified communities and touring major national project sites,” Mr Marau said.

He said this initiative is important because it will really give the Parliamentary Opposition first hand information on key development challenges and realities on the ground.

The Press Secretary said it is also important to engage with civil society and advocacy groups to promote transparency and accountability.

“ As the alternative government, this is a opportunity to discuss policy alternatives and encourage citizens to participate in decision making and governance,” he said.

Mr Marau said the Parliamentary Opposition will also conduct visits to key government projects to carry our assessments to effectively report to Parliament and the people.

He said this is essential in getting the right information on the challenges and progress update on key development projects.

“This will also give us an oversight on key policies and government programs that will help us to provide alternative policies and recommendations,” he said.

The Opposition Press Secretary adds the most important thing is engaging with the people and listening to their plights and concerns.

“The most important thing is bringing our leaders close to our people, listening to their concerns and providing awareness,” Mr Marau said.

The Parliamentary Opposition Group will make their first official tour to Western province on Sunday this week.

The Leader of Opposition Hon Matthew Wale will lead a group of Opposition MPs and officials to meet with the western provincial government, and to visit project sites around key centres in Gizo, Munda and Noro.

The Parliamentary Opposition Group will also visit other provinces.

ENDS//