The Solomon Islands prime minister has today apologised to all Solomon Islanders for the ethnic crisis at the turn of the century.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare (centre) at the National Healing and Apology Week in Honiara. 2-7/ July/2016 Photo: Facebook - PM Press Secretariat
Manasseh Sogavare was speaking for all the governments that have ruled Solomon Islands since independence in 1978.
He was speaking at the opening of his government's National Healing and Apology Programme in Honiara this morning.
Mr Sogavare said his government's intention is to ensure lasting national peace and stability after the ethnic crisis that prompted the deployment of the Regional Assistance Mission.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare speaking during the National Healing and Apology Week in Honiara. 2-7/ July/2016 Photo: Facebook - PM Press Secretariat
The Minister for Unity, National Reconciliation and Peace, Samson Maneka, said it was the first apology by the government to the people for the events that transpired during the ethnic tension.
He said the week's theme of 'National Healing and Apology' was a significant and symbolic act of apology.
Minister Maneka said this has begun the process of accepting each other through healing and unifying love.
This Thursday Solomon Islands celebrates its 38th year of independence.