Urgent Clarification Needed on the Role of the Commissioner of Lands in Russell Islands Affairs

 

Solomon Islands Commissioner of Lands, 2024.

I write to bring an issue of utmost importance to the attention of the public—an issue concerning the ongoing land disputes in the Russell Islands, the role of the Commissioner of Lands, and the involvement of Levers Solomon Limited (LSL) and Patrick Wong.

The Russell Islands have been a center of land-related controversies for years, and recent developments have only added to the confusion. At the core of this issue is a question: Who does the Commissioner of Lands represent in the ongoing matters concerning the islands? Does the Commissioner act on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government (SIG), or is he representing private interests such as LSL and Patrick Wong?

Firstly, it is essential to clarify the legal standing of the Russell Islands in relation to the Solomon Islands Government. To date, SIG has no direct legal connection to the management, administration, or control of lands in the Russell Islands. This raises serious concerns about the actions of the Commissioner of Lands in this matter. If the Commissioner is acting on behalf of a private entity like LSL, it begs the question: Does this not fall outside the legal and regulatory framework of government? The integrity of his position and the alignment of his actions with government policy are matters that must be investigated. I am informed that an investigation into this matter is currently underway, which only further emphasizes the gravity of the situation.

In our previous correspondences, the Commissioner of Lands referred to a pending High Court claim regarding Faila Island, reportedly to be filed by LSL. Upon further inquiry, it appears that this claim has yet to be formally lodged with the court. This inconsistency leads to a fundamental question of transparency: Who exactly is the Commissioner representing in this matter? Are his actions truly aligned with the interests of SIG, or is he working to further the agenda of LSL and Patrick Wong? This is no minor issue, as it affects not only the legitimacy of the Commissioner’s role but also the legal status of the Russell Islands.

Given these unanswered questions, the legal counsel handling the Russell Islands dispute has been informed. The information from the Commissioner’s communications, specifically his mention of the unfiled High Court claim, will be forwarded for further verification and scrutiny.

But the issue extends beyond procedural discrepancies and unfiled claims. Even if LSL were to assert ownership over Fixed Term Estates (FTEs) within the Russell Islands, there is little chance of success. The current Perpetual Estate (PE) titleholder would almost certainly refuse to grant consent for any transfers of FTEs to LSL. Why? Because LSL has failed to meet its financial obligations for over a decade. They owe millions of dollars in unpaid annual rent to the PE titleholder, a liability that has accumulated over the years. It is this failure to fulfill rent obligations that forms the basis for the forfeiture of any remaining rights LSL may claim in the Russell Islands.

Given this financial background, any assertion that LSL could successfully reclaim or transfer FTEs in the Russell Islands appears to be a futile endeavor. The company’s track record, particularly its decade-long default in paying annual rent, makes it impossible for the PE titleholder to consider granting such a request. The notion that the Commissioner of Lands continues to support LSL’s claims, despite the clear legal and financial barriers, suggests that he is engaged in a losing battle.

Moreover, the role of Patrick Wong in this situation is also deeply concerning. Wong’s involvement, alongside LSL, raises questions about the motivations behind the Commissioner’s actions. Is this an issue of private interests being placed above the law, above the rights of the indigenous people of the Russell Islands, and above the interests of the Solomon Islands as a whole?

The Commissioner’s alignment with LSL and Wong could have dire consequences. The actions taken in support of this private entity’s failing efforts may lead to a significant legal downfall—not just for LSL and Patrick Wong but also for the Commissioner himself. The ongoing dispute over the Russell Islands cannot be reduced to a mere land transaction or legal technicality. It is a fight for the rights of the people and the lawful management of their lands. Any attempt to subvert these rights by aligning with private interests over public responsibility must be resisted.

In conclusion, I call on the Commissioner of Lands to immediately clarify his role and the legal basis for his actions. Does he represent SIG, or is he acting on behalf of LSL and Patrick Wong? This is not a minor administrative matter, but one of significant public interest, requiring transparency and accountability. The people of the Solomon Islands, especially those from the Russell Islands, deserve to know the truth.

Any further actions that the Commissioner of Lands takes in support of LSL and Patrick Wong will be subject to intense legal scrutiny. The stakes are high, and the legal ramifications will be significant for all involved.