The Solomon Islands Prime Minister has hit out at opposition allegations that his government is engaged in money politics.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare Photo: RNZI
The government says the leader of the Independent Group in Parliament, Derek Sikua, has accused them of employing such tactics to remain in power after US$375,000 was paid to an association also representing ex Malaita Eagle Force members.
Manasseh Sogavare says the opposition needs to be reminded that the government is now made up of responsible leaders held together by a collective commitment to the principles of good governance, respect and concern for peace and happy co-existence of all.
Mr Sogavare says they condemn any intimation of alliance to any interest group to stay in power.
He says the allegations represent cheap politics, the kind that can only be resorted to by people who are desperate to be prime ministers as recently demonstrated by the failed motion of no confidence.
Mr Sogavare says there is nothing wrong with assisting Solomon Islanders to settle back into their community by actively participating in economic development.
Jimmy Rasta, leader of the Malaita Eagle Force militia, in Solomon Islands in July 2003 Photo: AFP