The Solomon Islands Opposition Leader, Matthew Wale has called on the government to fill the Commissioner of Police position.
Matthew Wale is the Leader of Opposition in Solomon Islands. Photo: Office of the Leader of Opposition
The Solomon Star newspaper reported the position had been vacant since last November, after Australian Matthew Varley's contract expired.
Mostyn Mangau was appointed as acting Commissioner and had been in the role since.
Mr Wale said the position of Commissioner was vital in the oversight of the work of police and providing guidance on matters of national security.
"These are very important responsibilities."
He said the State of Emergency had now presented an unusual set of circumstances for law enforcement so it was important that a formal appointment was done.
"I, therefore, call on the government to stop dragging its feet on this matter and make the formal appointment," Mr Wale said.
Former Police Commissioner, Matthew Varley Photo: Solomon Islands UNDP