CatholicNET in the World A Coup has taken place in the Solomon Islands. The following are statements and information sent by Father Ambrose, sbd & correspondents from the Solomon Islands. June thru July Coverage 28th August 2001 - Publice Finance Crisis 31 July 2000 - Thinking with the Diocese 31 July 2000 - Politics of Intimidation - perspective by Dr. John Roughan 31 July 2000 - Article SI - 74 - Against legalization of Prostitution 29 July 2000 - Article SI - 73 - Peace, water, medicine 27 July 2000 - We lack the essentials 26 July 2000 - SI - 70 - Water supply problems 24 July 2000 - Requiem Mass 22 July 2000 - Scripture Professor dies 20 July 2000 - Ceasefire talks on - Article 67 16 July 2000 - A letter to Australian PM John Howard by the Dominican Provincial of the Province, Thomas Cassidy OP 16 July 2000 - KAKABONA SACKING 15 July 2000 - Ordination to Deaconate - SI Article 66 15 July 2000 - SOLOMONS: THE HUMAN STORY AS IT HAPPENS 13 July 2000 - Solomon Islands Update - from Bishop Adrian Smith 11 July 2000 - Thursday, 5:51 PM - Double Murders 11 July 2000 - Catholic priest held hostage 9 July 2000 - AN UPDATE - by John Roughan 7 July 2000 - S I is 22 years old 30 June 2000 - Some optimistic news from Solomon Islands DON BOSCO acquires site 28 June 2000 Article 62 - NO Solomon Islands PM YET 27 June 2000 - Article 61 - SI PM Candidates A Creeping Coup by John Roughan, SIDT, Honiara Article SI - 59 - Australia's Foreign Minister in Solomon Islands 23 June 2000 - SI - Article 58 - Archbishop Upset 23 June 2000 - SIBC News room - Julian Maka - Article 57 23 June 2000 - From the Archbishop Adrian Smith, Archbishop of Honiara - Article 56 Wednesday 21st June 2000 - Women's Fire Power Tuesday 20th June 2000 - Women for Peace MONDAY 19th JUNE 2000 7.55am Monday, 19 June 00 / Solomon Islands - Article - 53 Sunday, June 18, 2000 6:38 PM Subject: Market Firing Subject: SI Update 17th June 2000 Red Cross refused entry into Prison - 18 June 00 Airlines to resume flights to Solomons - 17 June 00 Solomon Islands in Pictures SCIA - Article 48 - June 15, 2000 SCIA - Article 47 - June 15, 2000 SCIA - Article 46 - June 15, 2000 SCIA - Article 45 - June 14, 2000 SCIA - Article 43 - June 12, 2000 SCIA - Article 42 - June 11, 2000 SCIA - Article 41 - June 10, 2000 SCIA - Ceasefire Agreed to (9 June 2000, 13:11) Solomon Island Christian Association - SCIA - Article 39 Solomon Islands Christian Association - SICA - Article 37 News from June 7 Statement of June 6 Article 36 Statement of joint police force - Andrew Nori - on SIBC at 11 am - 5th June, 2000 Solomon Islands - updates - 5th June, 2000 The situation is not good. SOLOMON ISLANDS Solomon Islands in Pictures (click here for more) Solomon Islands parliament building RAAF Hercules at Henderson International Airport to evacuate foreign Nationals A dance troupe entertains people at Holy Cross on Sunday 11th June, 2000 after the Sunday Eucharist Armed Australian soldiers guarding the aircraft as it sits on the tarmac. PRESS RELEASE Issued by the Honiara Civil Society Network, on Tuesday 28th August 2001 The Honiara Civil society network has put a proposal to the Prime Minister on how we might work together to address the current crisis that we are facing in Public finance. The Government has serious problems with its cash flow and as a consequence has failed to make its payments, including the most basic payment to its workers. This is particularly painful for public servants and other employees who depend on the government to provide funds for their wages. The consequence of this crisis is that we are all suffering. Public servants are not able to provide the basic services that we all need. Teachers are not able to teach properly, some schools are requesting parents to make contributions to help pay teachers. Nurses and medical staff are not able to provide health care properly, some public servants no longer have money to even travel to work. We believe this crisis in government finances will not be easily or quickly solved and unless we find some way of working together there is the prospect of the situation getting much worse. We believe that this situation requires that we all work together, constructively, cooperatively and openly. The civil society network put a proposal to the Prime Minister over the weekend and is looking forward to an early response. Tuesday 28th August 2001 Bob Pollard For Honiara Civil Society Network organizing committee Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons, P.O.Box 647, Honiara, Solomon Islands Tel: 677-36222/22125 Fax: 677-36333 E-mail: ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; Web page: http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika-main.htm Fr Ambrose wrote: Thinking with the Diocese About 40 persons attended a discussion cum sharing entitled "Thinking with the Diocese" held at Holy Cross hall on Sunday 30th July, 2000. Four questions answered earlier were collated and presented by Joseph Huta, Stephen Oru, Hilda Kii and Francis Kairi. The questions touched upon the present crisis and the how the church could deal with it. At the end of a fruitful two hour discussion the following emerged as very relevant issues that the church needs to address. 1. Education - The need is felt for education at all levels and of various types: formal, non-formal, academic, technical, youth, women, etc. 2. Authority - The voice of the laity needs to be listened to, heeded and acted upon, rather than a downward thrust on the part of the clergy. 3. Presence - The clergy needs to be constantly present in every activity of life. The above issues will need to be put into a concrete plan to be executed. It was also felt that there needs to be another meeting giving others the possibility of sharing. After clarifying ideals - it could be opened to the wider public. The programme was coordinated by Dr. John Roughan, SIDT - Advisor. A - SI - 74 Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm Fr Ambrose wrote: Message from Dr. John Roughan - SIDT - Advisor Politics of Intimidation The nation's main concern is undoubtedly its complete lack of security . There is serious break down in personal safety and property protection not only in Honiara city but in provincial capitals and even in villages themselves. Every day brings fresh incidents of lawlessness. Many here in Honiara readily relate stories about unlawful activity and in a growing number of cases can speak from first hand experience of criminal events which have happened to themselves. Solomons radio and newspapers cover only the most high-profile of crime stories: major robberies, hijackings, bashings, etc. A few days ago, for instance, three youths, claiming to be Eagles, hijacked a Japanese fishing vessel, forcing its master to transport them from the Western Province to Honiara, a two-day journey. Because of this incident and the theft of money and valuables from the fishermen's hostel in Noro, Taiyo has suspended fishing operations for an indefinite future. This would make it the fourth major company--Gold Ridge, Oil Palm, tourist enterprises--forced to close due to the current social unrest. Earlier in the week, an Eagle rogue-group deliberately torched more than 20 homes, mostly of leaf construction but some permanent structures within the city's boundaries. It seems that an Eagle commander thought that the valley where the houses were sited belonged to him and it was his way of getting rid of squatters. Lesser crimes of discreet intimidation, e.g. walking into an electric outlet store with a rifled carelessly slung over a shoulder to demand a brand new generator and throw in an electric hand saw, goes on daily. Stopping people on their way to work or returning from school to demand money 'donations' for food, drink and smokes are a common occurrence practiced by youths claiming Eagle status. The Eagles nightly road blocks were initially erected to deter rather than to catch the city's 'night shoppers' who normally use night-cover to do their brand of house calls. Recently, however, a new and creative wrinkle has been added to these road blocks. Thieves who insist on their 'right' to practice their resource-distribution techniques, are now taxed on the value of things they bring out as they pass through the road blocks. It is truly edifying, however, to realise that the vast majority of people, well into the 90% mark, are law abiding, remain courteous and thoughtful in their interaction with others in their daily lives. They are surrounded by the very few who are a serious threat to the whole human enterprise of peaceful living. Brandishing a gun in public brings a sense of powerfulness and, often a corresponding feeling of entitlement. What I want, I take when I want it. The nation faces a condition that is slowly eroding the business, social and cultural confidence of people. The Politics of Intimidation now rules the country. How long can a nation continue to operate when it is unable to call upon its own security force . . . no army, no police, no paramilitary except a self proclaimed protection organisation of undisciplined, untrained youths carrying guns? Can people long carry on the day's ordinary actions when their personal safety and security of their possessions are left to the whims of others who employ intimidation rather than follow the rule of law? Much of the nation's attention, at this moment, is drawn to the on-again, off-again cease fire talks between the Eagles and the Isatabu militants aboard the Australian supply ship, HMSA Tobruk, anchored off Honiara's shore. The government time table for these talks had a cease-fire accord signed a week ago but it was evident from the start that the militants had their own agendas in mind. It seems now that there will be a cease-fire signing of sorts early next week (31 July). The Tobruk has been cooling its heals for the past three weeks off Honiara must now leave Solomons waters by Tuesday (1 August) to return to its Australian base. But the cease-fire accord, even if signed tomorrow morning, is but one small step to a long peace settlement process. The Eagles currently enjoy a modicum of success on the 'battlefield'. They have pushed the Isatabu militants back significantly both east and west of Honiara and are in no mood to compromise, at least at present. However, it is fast becoming a concern for the Eagles that they do not hold all the cards, certainly not all the Acess. The Kongulae water source, which supplied more than half of Honiara's 48,000 people, has been blown up by Isatabu militants. Repairs will take many months if not the good part of a year. Control of Honiara is a mixed blessing for the Eagles. The city is difficult to defend, the security of its utilities--water, electricity, gas, fuel, telecommunications--remain vulnerable to hit and run raids. But as mentioned above, the nation's major difficulty lies in its lack of a state-controlled security force that makes city living dangerous. Business houses, especially the banks, will desert this Titanic quickly if security falls into Eagle hands exclusively. But the Eagles need Honiara more than the Isatabu militants. It is their one and only toe-hold on Guadalcanal, once given up (much like George Speight's freeing his hostages) they would be expected to return to ordinary life but without their weapons. That is why they desperately need to carve out for themselves a role here in the city, a role which allows them to keep their weapons and act as some kind of security both for Honiara and the state. But it is that very 'security' role which fosters the Politics of Intimidation and weakens the ordinary workings of the state. Peace talks should begin once the cease fire has been agreed to but these will be difficult, drawn out and contentious. Fortunately the rule of the gun has demonstrated how ineffective it is for bringing about solutions to the deep seated problems faced by both sides. Statesmen and especially vision-full women must be found and quickly so to lead the militants into a new understanding of what a future Solomons could be for all peoples. Provincial, state governments or any permutation of either is a surface issue. Can the warring parties come to realise that the very existence of Solomons lies in balance? Message from Dr. John Roughan - SIDT - Advisor Fr Ambrose wrote: A call against the Legalization of Prostitution Caritas PNG notes with much concern the recent call from one of the National Leaders that the legalization of prostitution would be a positive step to control the rise in HIV/AIDS throughout the country. It would seem that from the cross-erected on top of Parliament house, that while PNG is proclaiming to the world its Christian country status, it is no longer acting as one. Caritas PNG rejects outright this proposal, and calls for its total rejection by all members in parliament, noting that some have already spoken against the move. No person in sound mind can surely believe that such an act by arliament would indeed control the spread of HIV/AIDS, rather it would advance the spread of this deadly disease, and would at the same time down grade women in our society, who are already suffering in a male dominated society. Caritas PNG reminds all of the call for equality, especially those who suffer the oppression of patriarchy and sexism, which this legalism would bring about. The continuing crisis of AIDS within our society requires that emphasis should be laid on research, routine and voluntary testing, compassionate care, responsible education, effective support for persons with AIDS and their families, and respect for the rights and dignity of men and women with AIDS. MEDIA RELEASE - Caritas Papua New Guinea A SI - 74 Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm Fr Ambrose wrote: Peace efforts continue in Solomon Islands Efforts are continuing to salvage stalled cease-fire negotiations in Solomon Islands. Three Isatabu freedom movement leaders have stayed away, claiming to fear for their safety if they attend. Medicines in short supply in Solomons Health officials in Solomon Islands say medicines are in critical supply. There is no sterilizing machine operating on the island of Malaita. Equipment to be sterilized has to be sent to Honiara and returned. No major surgery can take place at the Central Referral Hospital in Honiara because of the lack of anesthetic. Infants being born at this time are no longer being vaccinated against the curable diseases such as polio, whooping cough, T.B. and Hepatitis. Fridges are unable to run as there is no kerosene or gas. Japanese fishing boat hijacked Solomon Taiyo's Sol Tay 68 was hijacked and forced to go to Honiara. It cost the company SBD 15,000. Earlier thieves broke into the premises of the company and stole over SBD 20,000 in Japanese Yen and SBD dollars. The company has suspended its operations. Water a problem Water continues to be a problem in Honiara. Residents are seen filling up containers at filling points. It is hoped that a refreshing shower of rain will ease the situation. Theft and break-ins are on the increase all around the city. A SI - 73 Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm Fr Ambrose wrote: We lack the essentials A few weeks ago - civilians from the Tenaru area moved to Tetere. Christ the King parish, Tetere has thus become the home of about 500 people. Every available space - the hall, shed, custom house, etc are being made use of. While they are grateful to have a roof over their heads - they lack the basics of food, water, sanitation and medical supplies. With no fuel Fr. Pedro the parish priest is unable to pump water that will give these people the possibility of a daily bath. Medical supplies need to reach the place before skin diseases already prevalent break into an epidemic. While many have nothing to do the entire day, and sit around, chew a few pods of Beatle nut, smoke or while away their time - youngsters enjoy a game of basketball. The present mood is one of calmness, resignation and acceptance of the inconvenience they are going through. A similar situation is prevalent on Malaita. There is much overcrowding and lack of food, water, sanitation and medical supplies. The worst hit are women and children. Let's hope there is the possibility of the much-needed basics to reach these people. A SI - 71 - We lack the essentials Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm Fr Ambrose wrote: Water Supply Problems and others. Honiara residents have been deprived of water for the past week due to a blow up at the SIWA pumping station in the Kongulae water source area. Residents are assured that SIWA will do its best to distribute water from other sources to the affected areas. This would be possible, as a large number of people have left the city in the past few weeks. Repair works could take a few months. Malaita has had an influx of people. This has caused a tilt in balance to sanitation, water supply, medical supplies, education, travel and transport, etc. Health problems are on the increase. Important Medical equipment has not been functioning compounding the problem. In Honiara, several wards have been closed down. A Voluntary Trauma Counseling Unit has been set up to counsel nurses and other medical staff affected by the brutal killings. The Management of Solomon Star have announced that it will publish its paper on three days of the week only - as newsprint, chemicals and other printing supplies are difficult to obtain. St. Joseph's Secondary School, Tenaru, a catholic institute managed by the Marist Teaching Brothers has closed for the year. Tenaru has been the scene of violent activity between the two warring parties. It is still to be seen whether SICHE, the only tertiary institute in the country will continue classes for the rest of the scholastic year. Over 500 people have now made the premises of Christ the King Parish, Tetere - their home. They just have a roof above their heads and strive to manage with roots and fruits that they can find. The center is unable to cater to the basic needs of the people. Water is scarce and so are medical supplies. The business community has got together to finance a security force as crime has been on the increase and the police force is unable to contain it. A SI - 70 Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm Requiem Mass Fr Ambrose wrote: The requiem mass for Fr. Raphael Sucaldito cm, was held at Holy Cross Cathedral at 11am on 24th July, 2000. Archbishop Adrian Smith was the main celebrant at the Eucharist together with 12 priests, sisters, friends and several lay faithful. Archbishop Adrian in expressing his sympathy on the death of Fr. Raphael thanked the Vincentians in the persons of Fr. Marcelo Manimtim cm and Fr. Jack Harris cm, for working for the Diocese. In commenting on his love for tennis, the Archbishop said that when you played with Fr. Raphael, he could teach you and beat you. Fr. Marcelo Manimtim cm, Rector of Holy Name Seminary, Tenaru gave the following farewell words at the end of the Eucharist. It does give us an insight into the person of Fr. Raphael Sucaldito cm. Raffy was ordained priest in Sydney on 11th January, 1968. He spent the whole of 1968 at St. Joseph's parish in Malvern, Victoria. This was his first and last parish assignment. The remainder of his priestly life he dedicated to the formation of fellow Vincentians and diocesan priests. He stayed at the Regional Seminary of Cebu, Philippines, for 18 solid years. It's yearly intake is 120-145 theology students. He specifically helped about 400 students, three of whom have become Archbishops. Raffy would have been 59 years old in November. I'm sure he would have loved to spend more years in the Solomons. Sydney was the city where he did his philosophy and theological studies, where he was ordained priest, and where he encountered the Lord's last call. In his dying hours he was surrounded by dear friends and fellow Vincentians, in whose company he passed away peacefully. He was in Sydney awaiting the next available flight to Honiara. In 1998, Fr. Bob Maloney, our Superior General informed me that Raffy was among the three volunteers for the Solomons that year. I wrote to Raffy, "I'd like you to come to Holy Name of Mary Seminary and build a tennis court". That's because where ever Raffy gets assigned he builds tennis courts. He did it with the help of friends inside and outside of the Solomons. Raffy not only builds tennis courts, he plays the game with passion. In his free hours, only rain and sickness will keep Raffy away from tennis. Many tennis opponents would deplore the death of Raffy because they looked forward to the day they would beat him. Raffy's mastery of tennis speaks of his character - what he does he does extremely well. In the Vincentian and diocesan houses of formation, he has filled various posts - Rector, Superior, Spiritual Director and Professor. As a teacher and preacher of God's Word, he is most conscientious and methodical. The Seminarians and the students of St. Joseph's School would attest to this. Raffy prepares and writes his homilies everyday. I see it as a sign of a true student and hearer of God's word. If you play cards with Raffy for money he would clean you out. If you plan to have a party, you can depend on Raffy's wonderful aperitifs and cocktails. If you happen to be a guest where Raffy stays, you will be assured of a hearty breakfast. Raffy enjoys the finer things of life and it was his great joy to see that others with him enjoy it as well. Dear friends, we are gathered here this morning, not so much to mourn for Raffy, though sad we are, but to praise the Lord for allowing our friend and brother to have lived among us. Our grief is lightened by the knowledge that Raffy has found favour with the Lord and is now at peace. We will miss Raffy's presence, but we know that he will be able to help us and plead our cause more effectively before God. He will speak gently on our behalf before the throne of God, especially for the peace that we all long for in this our land - Solomon Islands. A SI - 69 Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm Fr Ambrose wrote: Scripture Professor dies Fr. Rafael Sucaldito cm, died in St. George's Hospital, Kogarah, Australia on 21st July, 2000. He was 58 years. Rafe had been in hospital for nine days, following a diagnosis of acute lymphobiastic leukemia. On 20th July, Rev. M. J. Sullivan cm, fearing the worst anointed him and gave him the final blessing. Later, he had a cerebral hemorrhage and passed away on 21st July, 2000. He had spent the last five weeks stranded in Sydney, Australia following suspension of flights to the Solomons. His body will be flown back to Manila for burial.=20=20 Rafe completed his Seminary studies at St. Joseph's Eastwood and was ordained in 1968 by Cardinal Gilroy. He spent 1968 at Ashfield, Bathurst and Malvern. He studied Scripture in Rome and taught at Angono, Cebu for 19 years and since early 1999 was a Scripture professor at Holy Name Seminary, Tenaru, Solomon Islands. Rafe is one of six children - three of his sisters and his parents live in California. His brother died in an accident at sea, while Rafe was in Rome. Tennis was the love of his life and he always enjoyed a good game of tennis. The Seminary court stands as a tribute to his initiative and hard work. Rafe loved people and lived his life for them wherever he was. The Church of Asia-Pacific and more so, the Catholic Church of Solomon Islands has suffered a great loss. Our sympathy to the members of his family, his confreres in the Philippines and the Vincentians of Australia and Fiji. Compiled from a fax from Rev. M. J. Sullivan cm, Provincial, Australia Solomon Islands - 68 Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm Fr Ambrose wrote: Ceasefire talks on Leaders of the Malaitan and Isatabu forces have gathered on the Australian navy supply ship, Tobruk, a short distance from the capital Honiara. They're considering a draft ceasefire agreement prepared by the Solomon Islands Government. It is the perquisite for Peace talks. These talks will carry on for three days. In Honiara, the situation is uneasy. The Central Hospital is low on essential medicines. It seems two wards have been closed. There is no petrol in the city and diesel is very low. Fuel is expected to come in on Saturday. Schools have just a quarter of their students. Water from the White river source to one side of the city has stopped. Wonder when it will be resumed. A PNG national killed in the Solomons in an ambush in the Kakabona area has created quite a stir. The SI students in PNG were asked to move to Port Moresby as a precautionary measure. Mr. Andrew Nori stated that he would not want any priest to attend the peace talks. He added that the Archbishops movements were considered as political and hence he was stopped. Civilians have been asked to clear out from the Tenaru area. There seems to be a lot of destruction there. It has been increasingly difficult to move both East and West of Honiara. Solomon Islands - 67 Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm Letter - Sent: Sunday, July 16, 2000 8:44 PM Subject: RelPacNews #8 by jbfox The following item is a letter addressed to the Australian Prime Minister John Howard by the Dominican Provincial of the Province which embraces both Australia and the Solomon Islands Dear Mr Howard, We Dominican Friars have been meeting together this week to review the work of our Province which embraces Australia, New Zealand, the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Today, Solomon Islands Independence Day, we listened to four of our Dominican Friars from the Solomon Islands speak about the tragic and dangerous situation in their Islands. One of them was able to pass through the roadblocks around Honiara and meet with men from both the Isatabu Freedom Movement and the Malaita Eagle Force. The four Friars unanimously agree with Mr. Ulufa'alu that in Melanesian society, when two groups such as these are in conflict, the best way to resolve it is to have an independent third party as a mediator. Now that the Solomon Islands Police Force is no longer operating effectively, our Friars believe that only Australia and/or New Zealand can provide the kind of mediation that is needed and would be accepted by the Solomon Islanders. This cry for help is being made not only by our Dominicans but also by women's groups in Honiara and by those who have had to abandon their homes in Honiara and flee to the Provinces. We join with our Solomon Island Brothers in urging you and the Australian government to provide the kind of mediation that the people there are calling for. It would be a terrible comment on Australia if it failed to respond to the Solomon Islands in its hour of need. More terrible still, such failure could spell disaster for this young and vibrant country. We are also sending this letter to the Foreign Minister, the Leader of the Opposition and the Shadow Foreign Minister, the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of New Zealand, the President of the Australian Catholic Bishops' Conference, the President of the Australian Conference of Leaders of Religious Institutes, and the President of the New Zealand Catholic Bishops' Conference. We are confident of your help in this emergency. Yours sincerely, Thomas Cassidy OP Provincial of the Dominican Friars Fr Ambrose" <ambrose@donbosco.org.sb> wrote: KAKABONA SACKING Sunday morning July 16th , a quiet and listless one. The sea is glassy - probably Luke had a good exit last night as he left our community to go home to Taboko, swimming out into the open sea when the moon had gone down and travelling west to get round the new Eagles checkpoint in Kakabona at Kolutoha. He took a 5 litre plastic container to help him float for a rest and while he would breakfast from a tin of Ma Ling luncheon meat. Fr. Joe found a tin of engine grease with which Luke plastered himself liberally, as some kind of protection against the possible cold. Still there has been a lot of heavy gunfire from the same place the Eagles reached yesterday but I thought I might get a chance of getting through to go and say mass in one of the villages on the other side and check on the living conditions of people who must be now scattered further afield after all the shooting, burning and looting that took place in Kakabona. Five permanent buildings round Kavuare were completely destroyed, including the building where I anointed the bodies we found dead yesterday. (They subsequently beheaded the Papua New Guinean - what will the PNG think about the Malaita Eagles now? - and cut off the ear of the local before the Red Cross were allowed to take them). Hugh Bennet's (Commissioner of the Prison) two family houses burned to the ground - not to speak of the village houses, a combination of timber, iron and leaf, up as far as Kolutoha. There has obviously been some selection - probably the houses that had been taken over by the militants. As I was about to leave my house, I saw Alex Bartlett who waved to me in his car. No wonder he told me on the telephone a couple of days ago that he would be too busy over the weekend and that we should have a chance of having morning coffee at the beginning of the week. I caught a glimpse too of Andrew Nori in his hilux visiting no doubt his rottweiler bees to make sure they have only savaged within the appropriate bounds of legal respectability. The fellows on the checkpoint did not receive me too sympathetically - I've met with the same team on the White River checkpoint. They specialise in getting up people's noses. We are old adversaries and when we had a Sunday morning session and for one moment I thought I had taken a step too far. After some discussion about my request to go through for church services, the same fellow (Talo) who confiscated Br. Len's car, stepped past me to take mine away until another chap discouraged him. I was able to provide them some entertainment and they hooted at my offer to have a prayer service with the catholics in their group. They returned to the same old claptrap about the church only harbouring the militants and encouraging them in their vele magic. Neither government nor SICA nor most especially the Catholic church and archbishop have been any help in getting justice and an end to the fighting?.. Me? I am open to their suggestions??.. The commander who surfaced when tempers began to fray was my friend Eddie Gerea and he took me by the hand and escorted me back to my vehicle saying quietly things would change sometime. As we were all exchanging reflections, some boys were running down to the beach and roaring at the bush and shooting guns any old how.. It made me realise that so much of the gunfire was is for cosmetic effect. Further round the corner was Vatukola and the road up to Ezechiel Alebua's house although I don't think they have reached there yet. Some heavy booming gunfire was coming from up there but I'm not sure who is responsible for it. Perhaps things will settle down to normality again until next Saturday, a sabbath to fight with the army of the Lord and have the entertainment of another pillaging weekend. What a pity we don't have much enthusiasm for sports on Saturdays these times and not the exciting distraction of Aussie Rules Fr Ambrose" <ambrose@donbosco.org.sb> wrote: Ordination to Deaconate - SI Article 66 Amidst the tense situation of Solomon Island - there is a glimmer of light. The 8.30am Eucharist at Holy Cross Cathedral, normally filled with people had just about 500 in the congregation. The choir loft was filled with DMI sisters and the altar was wired to broadcast the Eucharist to the nation. Last minute touches were added as Daniel Lima and Julian Geni prepared themselves for their ordination. Archbishop Adrian Smith, Archbishop of Honiara, ordained them deacons at the Concelebrated Eucharist. The two deacons in their mid thirties are committed to serve the church through their promises of poverty, chastity and obedience. The present situation has prevented family members being present, but they were united with them through the bond of prayer and through the SIBC network via radio. The Archbishop praised them for responding to God's call to give up a family and love the wider people of God, to be content with just basic needs being met and to work for God's kingdom with no political agenda. He challenged them to work for justice and peace especially in these troubled times. He stated that they can only do so by being charged with a strong and powerful prayer life. Julian Geni hails from Laloato village, and Daniel Lima comes from Malogeti. Both are parishioners of Avuavu parish have completed their seminary training at Bomana Seminary in PNG. In recalling past years, a smiling Julian stated that he was taught to pray by his own family and he looks forward to serving the wider community through his priesthood. He is grateful for his training that has made him a more mature and confident person. The road he has chosen is not easy and he relies on the Lord to assist him through the difficulties he will encounter. Daniel accepts that fact that the young Catholic Church needs priests to lead the people of God. Over the years of his seminary training he has interacted with many people and they in turn have supported and encouraged him. He strongly believes that his call is a call to service, not one of authority and power. A - SI - 66 Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm "Fr Ambrose" <ambrose@donbosco.org.sb> wrote: From: jbfox <jbfox@is.com.fj Sent: Saturday, July 15, 2000 4:54 PM Subject: RelPacNews #6 SOLOMONS: THE HUMAN STORY AS IT HAPPENS Norman Arkwright sm HONIARA: 15th July (RPN) -- The Eagles swept through and round my house and down to Kakabona as the Mass bell was ringing this morning. Much shouting and anger and heavy gunfiring. There is one wounded man lying in the church now tended by a couple of sisters and Fr. Joe Kluwen. The clearnace started just three hours ago and vehicles are passing up and down the road in front of my house - some carrying away canoes and looting from the houses down towards Kakabone, some bringing up more soldier figures and guns and equipment. No sign of bulldozers - no need for them. There must be five hundred and more heavily armed men. No damage to mission buildings but many houses are burning in Kakabona. I went up into the middle of the village with three DMI sisters about an hour and half ago, looking for injured. Anointed two militants recently killed, in the presence of small groups of (some) jeering Malaitans.. I reached the front line where the Eagles very abusingly turned me back from the militant checkpoint in Kolutoha. Some wild accusations of the catholic church harbouring militants - some fellows softening. We returned to the church - seeing Malaitans abusing the bodies and and now, there are relaible reports of six bodies. Sporadic shooting now indicates they are clearing whatever has been missed. Not sure what will happen here but Andrew Nori turned up and asked anxiously if the mission staff were safe. I told him we had already rung Red Cross and they should be on their way. He was in his own truck with one individual with a rifle. He said he would go off and check to see if it was alright to bring in the Red Cross. Have just rung Red Cross again and they are still looking for Nori's permission. How crazy it is??.. There are four DMI sisters here and two Melanesian Marists and four expats. Br. Matthew has just gone off tto take Fr. Paul to the airport. We'll see. At present they seem to be roving through the Centre behind me and shooting. Enough for now. "Fr Ambrose" <ambrose@donbosco.org.sb wrote: From: Archdiocese of Honiara Sent: Friday, July 14, 2000 11:59 AM Subject: S.I. Update Thursday 13 July 2000 THURSDAY 13 JULY 2000 / 6.20 p.m. At 1.30 p.m. today, the devastating news was received that the MEF had attacked Visale Clinic which is about 35 km west of Honiara, at 5.00 a.m. this morning. This news was given to us by the Red Cross. At that time, they had no confirmed facts about the incident. In the meantime, the Red Cross have gone to inspect the situation and they have been able to verify that a fairly large group of raiders arrived by canoes powered by outboard engines at around 5.30 a.m. this morning. They attacked the clinic and most of the patients were able to run away. In the running away, one old man and a young man were shot dead. The young person was a Secondary School student at Tangarare Provincial Secondary School. The attackers damaged the interior of the clinic and stole some medicine as well. They also stole the clinic radio. This radio has been used extensively by the IFM for a long time. It has been very difficult for the nurse in charge of the clinic to prohibit this. The radio is the property of Guadalcanal Province. The IFM see themselves as closely affiliated to Guadalcanal Province. For that reason, they used the clinic radio as if it was their own property. It's understood that the raiders stayed about an hour in Visale. This second attack on a hospital following the one which took place at the Central Hospital on Monday last, is a stunning shock for the community. How the Solomon Islands Government can continue to see the Joint Operation paramilitary force and the MEF force as the legitimate law keepers is difficult to understand. Solomon Islands Christian Association met once again today, and spent a long time discussing it's role with the Government and the Peace making Process. The Government's apparent approval of the Joint Force Operation which exists is something very difficult for Solomon Islands Christian Association to accept. This evenings' News carried the stunning announcement that it is in the long term plan of the present Government to make a Defense Force out of the existing MEF and members of the IFM force. This is being presented as a way to involve youth and their training. If Solomon Islands is to learn anything from our neighbour Fiji, then having a Defense Force is probably the thing we need least. In Gizo in the Western Solomons yesterday there was a strange incident. Two armed men (or one armed person, it's not clear) went into the branch of the National Bank in Gizo. They took all the money the tellers had available. They went with this money straight to the Police and handed it over. It seems they did this to make up for the money owing to the Western Province from the Central Government. The Senior Officer in charge of the Police has made an arrest. Because of the collapse of the Judicial system, there's no Magistrate to hear the charges. The same evening News reported that the Guadalcanal Premier wants to work with the Government towards a cease fire. That was a statement he made on Tuesday last, with what has happened today at Visale one wonders if he will hold the same position. We have not received any news from the Church personnel at Visale. It must have been a terrifying moment for them. There are a number of retired Sisters there. Such an intrusion must have shocked them very much. As these various items of news come together, I can see in the face of our local clergy most of whom are Guadalcanal men, a great sadness and strain. Holy Cross, our Cathedral area, stands on a hill by itself. Many people are seeking refuge in the area as they are afraid to move freely in the town. Many of those who are staying here are afraid to go outside the precincts of Holy Cross. There is a breaking point, and I worry how close are we to it. Yours in Christ, +Adrian Smith, SM Fr Ambrose wrote: The following is an article written by Dr. John Roughan, SIDT advisor Sent: Thursday, July 13, 00 5:51 PM Subject: Double Murders Murder-execution Shatters the Establishment The gang-like execution murders of two defenseless Isatabu militants lying in their hospital beds has shattered the basic assumptions of the nation's establishment . . . the political, business, cultural and religious elite as well as the backbone of the country, the villager. One of the two most respected universal sanctuaries--the church and the hospital--has been outrageously desecrated. Government ministers hastily met in emergency session the same evening (10 July) trying to come to grip with an atrocity that has occurred so soon on their watch. The Tobruk Peace signing euphoria which occurred on the nation's 22nd anniversary of independence has totally evaporated. The Solomon Star, ordinarily pro government, didn't carry a single picture of the Tobruk event and had but a single front-page story about the handing over of the $10 million compensation. To diffuse somewhat the awfulness of the double brutal murder among Guadalcanal people, however, the government handed over $0,000 today to the Guadalcanal Primier, Alebua. But how the murders were carried out has upset the whole nation. The three killers cold, brazen walk into the hospital, ordering staff to open the patients' locked door and when the keys wouldn't be produced (rather courageous of the young nurses to say the least), bashing the door down, standing at the foot of the bed, and leveling the shot gun at point-blank range totally destroyed the two youths chest areas. Hospital as sanctuary was totally blown away by the same shot gun blast as well. Unfortunately the viciousness exercised by both sides in this conflict has been escalating over these past few months. The headless corpse dumped at Honiara's Main Market (6 May)marked the public escalation of militia fighting. The Eagles have their 'Panel Beating Shop' where suspected Isatabu prisoners have been beaten to death. The Isatabu, on their side, capture and execute captives (two young Malaitans killed last week) has been going on without any public outcry by government members, business, Church and traditional leaders. The hospital murders, however, could not be ignored; they happened in broad daylight in the centre of town. Who now is safe in Honiara? The city has no functioning police force--the Eagles run a joint security operation with the remnant of police officers but offer only selected security. Highjacking of cars and private vehicles occur daily. Extortion of business premises remains a favorite in-door sport and driving Honiara's roads is an exercise for extreme caution. Fortunately the Eagles, for the most part, still drive on the left side of the road but how long will that last? This ruthless execution has ripped away the mask of normality, of the city's "business as usual" attitude. Decision makers across the board are now digging deeper not only to understand what is happening in this dissolution of the nation and what must be done to save it. Extraordinary measures are required and quickly so. 1. The nation's judiciary should set up an independent investigative body to record our growing rate of human rights abuses: dates, times, names of victims, names of alleged perpetrators, pictures of site, locations and whatever else is needed to document for court proceedings in the future. This would be in line with Amnesty International's call for such a body. 2. Politicians should refrain from blaming the growing social unrest simply on colonial practices of old but accept that it is they with their poor leadership over almost a quarter of a century who are one of the primary architects of our present state unrest. 3. Civil society must be expected to be much more pro active in the governing of the nation. Media representatives, NGO groups, churches, women organisations must no longer allow their country be directed by a political elite alone. 4. Villagers, especially, must become more involved in the governing of their own lives and more informed for the new century. John Fr Ambrose wrote: Catholic priest held Solomon islands' militants reportedly were holding Fr. Augustine Geve, parish priest of our Lady of Fatima parish, Marau. Archbishop Adrian Smith in a service message requested the release of Fr. Augustine Geve who had been reported to be taken by the militants to a nearby island. Some say that property was also destroyed. He also appealed to the two warring factions to lay down their arms and give the government the possibility to work on peace. Fr. Augustine Geve was later reported to have been released after being questioned. Joint Para-military operation stated that a search revealed several home made guns in the parish building. They fear that Fr. Augustine may be involved with the IFM militants. Two shot dead in the Central Hospital The two men aged 18 and 20 were recovering from wounds sustained in a battle East of Honiara. Witnesses say three masked armed men entered the surgical ward around 2pm on Monday, 10th July, 2000, threatened staff and then shot the two Isatabu militia members at point blank range. Staff at the hospital have told SIBC radio that they were shocked by the killings and say they fear for their lives. They've appealed to the Solomon Islands government to immediately improve security at the hospital. Prime minister Manasseh Sogavare says Malaita Eagle Force leaders have assured him they'll co-operate and try to bring the killers to justice. But with the police force effectively side-lined, it's hard to see how a proper murder investigation can be conducted. The killings are a new obstacle to peace initiatives. It's unclear if a meeting between government members and the Isatabu leadership due to be held will go ahead" reported Richard Dinnen. Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm Sunday, July 09, 2000 10:42 AM Subject: AN UPDATE - by John Roughan Olgeta TYPED AS I LISTENED TO SIBC (7 JULY 2000) At this very moment, the Premier of Malaita and the Acting Premier (Stephan George) of Guadalcanal are being presented separate cheques by Central Government to kick start the Peace Process. These discussions are taking place on the HMSA Tobruk, anchored off Tetere Beach and are broadcasted live by SIBC. High Commissioners of Australia and New Zealand are also in attendance. The newly established Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare, and many of his ministers are present and are witnessing a step in a much needed peace solution of our current social unrest. David Oeta, Premier of Malaita, has just received a SI$5 million as compensation from the Guale Province for the slurs leveled at the province during the Cultural Centre peace talks last year about this time. Nathaniel Waena, Minister of Provincial Government, has just given SI$3 million to Stephan George for compensation on claims from Guale Province. Deputy PM, Allan Kemakeza, has just given a cheque (SI$1.8 million) to Premier of Malaita for the missing Malaitans thought to have been killed over the past 20 months of conflict. Assistant PM gave $16,000 given to Guale Province for the alleged rape of a young girl at Ruavatu Secondary School in the middle of 1998 (I think that's the date.) The payment of these compensation claims is an attempt to clear the way for talks, to calm down people's emotions which is a normal procedure in Melanesian culture. Sogavare's actions have been at least fast off the mark. Within a week of his swearing in, it seems, at least if today's proceedings are anything to go by, he has kicked started the peace process once again and we are well on our way according to SIBC commentary. I would, however, call for a modicum of good old fashioned 'pinch of salt'. The next few days will tell how well this compensation money has worked to cool down the Boys With Guns. There was neither an Eagle nor Isatabu presence abroad the ship. Certainly Nori's name has not been mentioned one time. But as far as I can figure out from the SIBC's broadcast, the warring factions presence seems to be missing from the proceedings completely. This does not bode well for the future peace process since it was this same scenario--not only no presence of the GRA of the time but their violent reaction to the proceedings--in May 1999 which brought the country to the present impasse. Oeta, Premier of Malaita, is in the middle of his speech and is stressing that if this money is not going to lead to real respect of provincial authorities by the warring factions (especially the Isatabu Movement), then it is mere money with no real meaning. He's referring to what I mentioned in the last paragraph. Last year's GRA waited only 10 hours before giving an answer . . . they looted, drove out inhabitants and burnt a Malaita village in response to the peace proceedings of 23 May 1999. Alebua's no-show does not help matters. An apology for his non-attendance was given but no reason for his no-show. Stephan George, in his speech, detailed how much more money is still owed to the province: swearing by Malaitans against Guale authorities, the trashing of Guale Headquarters Building in Honiara, the burning down of the Marau sub-station, a written article by Alex Bartlett (I have no idea where this has come from.) and one other demand. In other words, the money given is a start but only a start. All of these proceedings come in a rather startling coincidence: 7 July 2000 is our 22nd birthday of independence. What a wonderful step this would be if it does start the nation off well again. REFLECTIONS ON LATEST PEACE SIGNING Solomon Islands' nation has recently changed its captain, appointed a new boat's crew . . . but are all sailing in the Titanic? Yesterday (7 July 2000), the nation's 22nd anniversary of independence, the nation's newest government--Prime Minister and many of his Ministers of State--boarded the HMSA Tobruk for the latest Peace Signing ceremony, the seventh (7th by my count) since 23 May 1999. Below are the list of names of the various Peace Accords and their dates as well as other pertinent signings which are of interest. PEACE ACCORDS / OTHER SIGNINGS 1 Honiara's Cultural Centre Meeting 23 May 1999 Marau Communique 1999 2 Honiara Peace Accord 18 June 1999 3 Panatina Agreement 12 Aug. 1999 4 Aruligho Resolution 5 Dec. 1999 5 Buala Peace Conference 5 May 2000 6 Auki Commitment to Peace 12 May 2000 Pre-cease-fire Guidelines 22 May 2000 7 Tobruk Peace Signing 7 July 2000 Conditions for Cease-fire 3 June 2000 As happened many times before, the Boys With Guns--Eagles and the Isatabu militias--were neither present nor represented for the latest ceremony. The Solomons public has grown rightly suspicious of these much publicized rituals. How much is window dressing, how much for political show and how much for real? As in recent times past, this latest signing, The Tobruk Peace Signing, was accompanied by a militant shoot-out in the Kongolai area (near Honiara's water source) and at least one wounded boy (his leg almost shot off by machine gun fire) needed emergency medical attention. SIBC carried a story (on the NGO radio program this morning 8 July) that the Joint Operations/Eagle Force are demanding a portion of the compensation given to the Malaita Premier as rightfully there's. They are acting as the traditional Ramo . . . the warrior who does all the hard work and should therefore have a lion share of the winnings. Perhaps the Premier of Malaita can bargin with the Eagles: $5,000 for each weapon turned in. A million dollars could buy up almost 90% of the weapons and would be a great strart for the peace process. These kinds of events make it crystal clear that the country desperately needs a greater and deeper involvement of other stakeholders, other than those who hold political office. Alternative thinking, creative alternatives and new ways of looking at our situation are fundamentally called for. The comfortable assumptions of the late 20th century have cracked. Many of then are now utterly shattered by the armed rebellion of the 5 June Coup and have set the course of the nation for this century. Politicians are only beginning to accept that their role, as important as it is, needs the on-going support of the church community, women power, the NGO sector but especially the villager and urban dweller. No one group nor institution has the power, authority or resource base to return the nation to the peace, order and tranquillity it so took for granted over the past quarter of a century. And each of these groups have begun to mobilise themselves. Solomon Islands Christian Association (SICA), the umbrella body representing the nation's five mainstream churches, has been stirred into action these past months. And it is well they might be! It is unfortunately true that it is their church-goers who are fighting on the front lines and many times the dying. Young as these boys are, it is they who are manning the road blocks, carrying the guns, shooting at each other and many times lying dead in the jungle. Church authorities are now well aware that what had started out as rag-tag mob of youths, armed with nothing but home-made weapons, has now escalated into vicious fighting with no-holds barred consequences. Religious groups--the Brothers of Melanesia--actually slept in militant camps to bring about a sense of normality. Religious sisters interacted with Guale village women to bring them small store-bought goods (soap, kerosene, sugar, etc.) to be in solidarity with them in their palpable fear. The church hierarchy is actively encountering the militia and working to reduce the suffering of all on both sides. Women organised themselves to bring the leaders back to their senses. They started back in June 1999 when they created the Reconciliation and Peace Committee to speak not only to the Commonwealth's ambassador (Gen.. Rambuka) but to militant leaders (Andrew Nori) as well. At first the men of power told them to "Shut up!" but this year that chant has changed to a recognition of sorts. Of course the Neanderthals of the male species have a great habit of shooting themselves gloriously in the foot. One of them quoted over SIBC (but sensibly did not allow his name to be mentioned) said that the women's prayers and hymns in Parliament Building at the election of the new Prime Minister placed them in the same league as the Eagles and Isatabu fighters. These groups, to remind all, are the same ones who have taken up the gun to bring down by force the government of the day. Fortunately the vast bulk of Honiara's people see women's work as a great blessing and hope that it continues even stronger in the days to come. NGOs under the umbrella organisation of Development Services Exchange (DSE) has brought together many of the NGOs still operating in and around Honiara. Radio programs featuring peace messages, information radio ads and a written media outreach with a Pijin-English comic, bumper stickers and other visuals have begun to sprout. Some of the peace songs, original pieces with merit, are filling the radio airways. The best thing DSE has done, however, has to bring all the major players together to share with the donor community not only their work patterns but their need for resources. AusAID, European Community and NZ High Commission are part of the local scene while others overseas are actively interested in resourcing the NGOs outreach as well. And the Solomons needs these stakeholders to go into overdrive and soon. It's difficult to see a major change in direction this year no matter what the politicians think, say or do. Too often we as a nation opt for the quick fix. In December 1999, for instance, there was a feeling that enough was enough. The Boys with Guns should now fade into the bush, go back home and let the rest of us get back to normal life. Sorry, that's not what happened and not what's going to happen. The Solomons has turned a corner, one which everyone will have to stand up and be counted. What took more than a generation to produce will only go away, if at all, by outside-the-box thinking, concerted hard work, and yes lets say it, by prayer, of the whole nation working for the quality of life for all and not for the select few. John Roughan S I is 22 years old Solomon Islands celebrated its 22nd independence day on 7th July, 2000. The Governor General spoke to his people and so did the Prime Minister. With the escalating tension in the East and West ends of Honiara, there were no dances and parades. A reconciliation ceremony on board the Australian Supply ship was held in the afternoon and compensation money was handed out to the two provinces. The past week was an eventful one. Manasseh Sogavare was elected PM on 30th June, 2000. Mr Sogavare defeated the government's candidate, former United Church Bishop, the Reverend Leslie Boseto, 23 votes to 21. He has named his cabinet ministers. However, fighting between the two rival militia groups has cast doubt on whether the new Prime Minister can achieve his goal of peace by Christmas. Ousted Solomon Islands prime minister Bartholomew Ulufa'alu says the new government of Manasseh Sogavare is illegal. The Isatabu Freedom Movement says the new government was formed under duress, and has refused to take part in any peace negotiations the Government convenes. It has appealed to Australia to with-hold recognition and co-operation, saying the circumstances surrounding the formation of the Government make a mockery of democracy. Both sides are now regularly involved in heavy clashes to the east and west of the capital, Honiara, with the Malaita Eagle Force using an armour-plated bulldozer in its fight with the Isatabu Freedom Movement. The Red Cross reported 4 dead and several wounded. Government calls for a ceasefire have been ignored but as each new fight breaks out, reprisals become inevitable, delaying the peace process even further. It was sad to note that a former Pastoral Worker and student of Nazareth Apostolic Centre, John Bosco was taken hostage by the MEF and reports say he was killed. I was away at Loun, Russell Islands, that celebrated the feast of the Sacred Heart. 37 children received their first Holy Communion and two were baptized. The celebrations included items - dances and skits from the different groups and the different islands. They look forward to the Youth Day to be celebrated in August. Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm Fr. Luciano wrote: Some optimistic good news from Solomon Islands We have elected (more or less democratically) a new Prime minister in Mr Sogavare (The leader of the opposition). In his address he thanked those who voted him ( a mere three votes difference from second candiate Bishop Leslie Bosetto). He called for peace and national reconciliation. He thanked all the groups who helped and worked hard during the past difficult time: SICA and Honiara women. He called for the disarmament of the two militant groups, and lifting of the check points he promised amnesty and invites all to come back to Honiara and resume their normal activities. Things may not be that easy and may not happen so soon. Honiara is still a deserted townm and the check points will be there for some time I am afraid. Fr. Ambrose is presently ministering for one week to the Russel Island Catholic community Fr. Luciano Capelli, sdb Don Bosco Solomons, Honiara lcapelli@donbosco.org.sb lcapelli@donbosco.net http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm Fr Ambrose wrote: DON BOSCO ACQUIRES SITE Don Bosco has acquired a site for a Technical Training center to help abandoned Solomon Islands youth become good Christians and honest citizens. Situated near the Henderson Airport and next to the Airport Motel, the acquisition of the site materialized the organization's strong intention to establish a technical School and Training Centre in the capital. "After several failed attempts, we are very lucky to acquire this piece of land to provide training for the local youth, " said Fr. Luciano Capelli, Rector of the Salesians of Don Bosco in Solomon Islands. John Lee, a private businessman who owns the land had earmarked the site for a super market, hot bread kitchen, butchery and other business activities. "We now thank the Lord, because our request has finally been accepted, but in a different form, " he said. Fr. Luciano said the land agreement was struck on May 24, the feast day of Mary Help of Christians. He added that Lee has consented to construct the centre's church building. "If the Lord will give me strength, I'll do it, " said Lee. The center will cater for school push-outs, from Ste 6, Form 3 & 5, by providing them with a technical curriculum to prepare them for self employment or industry. "We are simply providing the push-outs with appropriate training which would be useful both in the industry and back in their respective villages," commented Fr. Ambrose Pereira. He said that they hope to begin with agriculture and general skills training for self-employment. Training in automotive, sewing and catering will also be catered for at the center in due time. Although the actual work on the center is yet to start, trainings have started, according to Don Bosco's collaborator Atu Balekana. "We are currently providing rehabilitation trainings for the released inmates," stated Atu Balekana. "The automotive and basic welding trainings for the inmates started inside the Rove Prison early this year," he said. So far three inmates have turned up, and Balekana called on the others to come forward to continue their training. "The youth are the future of the nation so it is important that we can on our young people now." "The young people should also think of becoming productive in the family, society and the nation," he said. Balekana said most young people have lost their dignity and vision of who they are and what they can achieve. "We need to show them inner resources and capabilities," he said. As the founder stated, "It is not enough to love the youth, they must feel and experience that they are loved and trusted." ** Don Bosco is an organization started in Italy in the late 1800s by St. John Bosco with the aim of helping abandoned youths to become productive members of society. Today it is a worldwide organization. Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm Fr Ambrose wrote: Article 62 NO Solomon Islands PM YET The Parliamentary complex was filled with people. The atmosphere was calm. Women are playing a large role in striving to preserve Solomon Islands. It was encouraging to note that the women - wearing their blue, yellow and green scarves were gathered together and were singing hymns of praise and worship to the Lord. A few were invited to raise their hearts and voices to the Lord in prayer in Parliament before the commencement of voting. A shower brought many more people together under the enclosure that was occupied by the women. At around 3.30pm the meeting of Parliamentarians broke up. There were just 22 who turned up for the meeting. 20 were from the Opposition and 2 including caretaker Prime Minister were from the government. Manaasah Sogavare was the only candidate that was present. The two other candidates Reverend Lesley Bisseto and Francis Billy Hilly did not turn up. If a vote had been taken the opposition leader would have won 20 votes to 2, but the Governor General Sir John Ini Lapli decided that 22 members of a parliament of 50 was not enough to produce a legitimate result. An absolute majority in the Solomon Islands parliament is 26. Sir John adjourned the meeting to a date to be fixed. Some government members who boycotted the meeting want the vote to be taken somewhere other than Honiara where the ethnic militia, the Malaita Eagle Force is still in charge, stated Sean Donery. It is not known whether the three candidates have been nominated for the post will be the ones to contest the election later. Disappointment was written on the faces of all the people as they made their way home. The caretaker PM stated that his government still holds firm. He stated that an MP was threatened at gunpoint to join the opposition an hour before the parliament meeting. MPs have not attended the meeting as their lives are in danger. Politicians are fearful that once inside parliament for the vote they may become hostages to the Malaita Eagles Force militia which took control of Honiara on June 5th. Solomon Islands acting commissioner of police John Homelo says 60 officers have been stationed around parliament and three hotels housing politicians. Earlier Solomon Islands Opposition Leader, Manesseh Sogavare, had promised amnesty for members of the country's warring ethnic militias and rogue elements of the police force if he's elected prime minister today. Article 62 Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm A SI - 61 PM candidates Fr Ambrose wrote: Parliament meets on Wednesday 28th June, to elect a new Prime Minister. Three candidates for the post of Solomon Islands' Prime Minister, made vacant by the forced resignation two weeks ago of Prime Minister Ulafa'alu. 1. Manaasah Sogavare - Opposition leader 2. Reverend Lesley Bisseto, Minister for Lands 3. Francis Billy Hilly a government member and former Prime Minister. None of the above are from the islands of the warring parties. In fact all come from the Western Province. We pray that Solomon Islands moves smoothly into a peaceful new Government. A SI - 61 PM candidates Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm Fr Ambrose wrote: A Creeping Coup by John Roughan, SIDT, Honiara Solomon Islands is currently experiencing another coup, the second in less than a month. The first, engineered by Nori and Company's Malaita Eagles on 5 June 2000, was both dramatic and potentially violent. Fortunately in spite of the show of gun power in the hands of untrained and poorly disciplined youth, there was not one incident of death or even a wounding. It was truly bloodless. The second coup, however, is a creeping one. It has over the past three weeks killed the nation's fragile unity. While the first one destroyed the nation's democratic system-made a mockery of the constitution, seriously undermined the parliamentary system and thoroughly destabilized the nation's police force, the second one has effectively destroyed the national economy. Central Hospital has lost more than a quarter of its expert doctors, about 40% of its beds, normally 82% occupied, are currently used, and many of its nursing staff are now on unpaid leave in the provinces. Government offices offer only a skeleton staff in many ministries, e. g. Ministry of Education employs about one third of its labour force of 99 people. Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation has reduced its daily radio outreach services to the nation. But it is the private sector that has experienced the economic coup the worst. Major business enterprises of Gold Ridge, SIPL's oil palms, logging industry (an example of ill-wind blowing some good) tourist industry's hotels, diving shops and other spin offs have completely closed down or are in shrinking mode daily. These enterprises had, until recently, employed thousands and will take months if not years to come on stream once again. Honiara's streets are empty of shoppers while the city's roads-at least those in the middle of the city-are indeed a pleasure to drive. A car ride in the middle of a typical workday from the Ranadi area to the central Post Office takes less than 4 minutes driving at a modest rate. Chinatown, normally bustling in early afternoon, is a shadow of itself. Many shop owners have simply boarded up their shop fronts and have either left the country all together or are hiding in their homes waiting for a safer time to begin trading once again. The Paramilitary and Malaita Eagle Force Joint Command published (Star, 22 June, p. 5) a requisition form which merchants are asked to honour when the force requires food, fuel, etc. when presented by the militants. This request for help doesn't include those people who lost vehicles (many now being driven around Malaita) and requisitioned household goods. UMW was broken into and lost 60 chain saws and 24 Johnson outboards two nights ago during curfew hours. This afternoon I witnessed a group of Eagles descend upon the betel nut vendors (which now ply their trade in dozens of places around Honiara) at NPF Plaza and help themselves to a box of betel nuts and cigarettes. Of course the very big economic players-European Union funded projects (SI$210 million), AusAID assistance, UNDP, Commonwealth-are all holding their collective breaths hoping that Solomons will claw its way back among the community of democratic nations. Their much-needed assistance directly depends upon the flowering of a democratic state. The 5 June Coup put much of this assistance in doubt. Every volunteer sending group-Peace Corps, VSA, VSO, CUSO, JOCV, AVI-without exception have withdrawn their personnel, about 200+, for the foreseeable future. The NGO sector for the most part has suspended operations and only two or three (DSE, SIDT, NCW) have a small number of operational staff working. Honiara's business community is asking that the militant leadership realise the consequences of this complete collapse of the national economy. Although the bank groups have promised to remain open for business, this will "become extremely difficult if incidence of threatening behaviour continues". Air Niugini has re-opened up its twice-weekly air link with Solomons but Qantas has yet to decide to do the same because Lloyd's of London, its underwriter refuses to insure aircraft flying into Henderson. To add woe to misery, CEMA (Commodities Export Marketing Authority) is broke . . . probably not correctly factoring in its recent $5 million purchase of three South Korean ships and the refurbishing of its new office complex near the wharf area. Alexander Downer, Australia's Foreign Affairs Minister currently visiting our broken country, sought out the Governor of Central Bank, Rick Hou, for his assessment of the economy. His statement was clear, as it was depressing: The economy is close to complete collapse. The Eagles' 5 June Coup effectively overthrew the government and served its interest of bringing in another government. However, our present Creeping Coup is destroying the nation's ability to survive. How a destroyed economy can generate the compensation that the Eagles are demanding is hard to understand. Within that context, the 28 June parliamentary elections for a new Prime Minister will be fatally flawed unless there is also a true return to normality in everyday life. John Roughan , SIDT Advisor Article SI - 59 - Australia's Foreign Minister in Solomon Islands Fr Ambrose wrote: Australia's Foreign Minister in the Solomon Islands Australia's foreign minister Alexander Downer has begun a series of meetings in the Solomon Islands capital Honiara with some of the parties involved in the country's ethnic conflict. He hopes that the progress made over the last week continues over the next few days. In an interview with SIBC he stressed the need for all groups to contribute openly towards the Peace Process. While Australia's Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has had a meeting in Solomon Islands with some of the leaders of the Guadalcanal ethnic militia, the Isatabu Freedom Movement, he has been unable to meet the leadership of the other ethnic militia, the Malaita Eagle Force, which is now in control of the capital. Mr Downer had a range of meetings today, both in Honiara and at sea in an Australian Army landing barge. But Andrew Nori and the other leaders of the Malaita Eagle Front would not meet him. Mr Nori says the ceasefire talks may have to be delayed. Reports Sean Dorney, Honiara. Fighting broke out in the Marau area and that has left 2 dead and 4 wounded. The Joint Command will attend cease-fire talks when the IFM are genuinely interested in them. Andrew Nori states that their engagement at Marau will not affect the meeting of Parliamentarians to elect a new Prime Minister. SICA asks for prayers SICA in a press release asks for prayers for the safety of Parliamentarians and that our leaders may rise about political differences and unite to be able to lead the country in reconciliation and healing. Article SI - 59 - Australia's Foreign Minister in Solomon Islands Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm Fr Ambrose wrote: Archbishop Upset The road block east of the capital has been tightened. SIBC reported that the Red cross was stopped from taking medical supplies out of the capital into rural Guadalcanal. They also sated that Archbishop Adrian Smith was refused permission to go through. Archbishop Adrian Smith was visibly upset yesterday morning. The Malaita Eagle force bunker and checkpoint at alligator creek refused him entry. The catholic arch bishop of Honiara, Adrian Smith, says he was stopped and prevented from taking a priest and a religious sister to the Holy Name of Mary seminary at Tenaru, east of the capital. Arch Bishop Smith has called on the leadership of the Malaita Eagle force to impress on their militant personnel the need to allow clergy to do their pastoral duties. He said if they were denied the right to do that and take sufficient food with them to feed themselves then the Solomons had reached a state of anarchy which he described as intolerable. Reported Sean Dorney. Concern Solomon Islands' MP's won't attend crucial meeting The speaker of the Solomon Islands' parliament says he's concerned members won't turn up for next week's meeting to elect a new prime minister, and has paid for advertisements urging them to come back to Honiara. Sean Dorney reports that many of the 50 members have left the capital which is still under the armed control of the Malaita Eagle Force militia. Even the outgoing PM Bartholomew Ulufa'alu who was forced into resigning by the armed militants has left the capital for his home island for the capital Malaita. Several members have expressed the fear that if the Malaita Eagles Force doesn't like the prime minister they elect next week they may be held hostage like has happened in Fiji. The spokesman for the Eagle Force Andrew Nori has given a public assurance that the MEF is not supporting any particular candidate, and he's even urged the formation of a Government of national unity. The speaker Paul Tovua has called on members to return to the capital so that, in the words of his newspaper advertisement he can at least get a quorum. A SI - 58 - Archbishop Upset Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm "Fr Ambrose" <ambrose@donbosco.org.sb> wrote: SIBC News room - Julian Maka - Article 57 Catholic Web site The Catholic Church in Solomon Islands now has a website on the internet. This is revealed by Father Ambrose Pereira of the Salesians of Don Bosco who is the Director of Catholic Communications in Solomon Islands. Fr Pereira says the website is possible through the help of the CatholicNET from Diocese of Cleveland in the United States of America. Bishop Anthony Pilla is Bishop of the Diocese of Cleveland. He says CatholicNET of Cleveland agreed to the idea following a request from his office. The site started on June 10th - five days after the joint operations took control of the armories of Solomon Islands. All training facilities retrieved The Don Bosco Trust of Solomon Islands has retrieved its training facilities at Rove prison following the mass walk-out by prisoners last week. Head of the Trust, Father Luciano Capelli says they were able to get their stuff and are still eager to go ahead once things come back to normal. Meanwhile, Father Ambrose Pereira says Don Bosco is keen to secure part time jobs from local companies for some prisoners who are still in Honiara. He also says they may yet look at the possibilities of running classes for prisoners either at Holy Cross or a convenient venue if they find eight to ten of them. He says he has personally met four of them already in the past two days. Don Bosco acquire site The Don Bosco Trust in Solomon Islands is set to start building its much awaited Youth Centre soon. Head of the Trust, Father Luciano Capelli reveals this saying they have been allocated 10-hectares next to the Airport Motel, opposite Henderson airport. Fr Capelli says upon completion in 2001, the Centre will start with 90 standard six push-outs in January 2002. He stresses that they will start with Honiara push-outs only and then take forms 3 and 5 push-outs later. He says standard six push-outs will get three levels of training which will include secondary curriculum and two streams of skill training. On the other hand forms 3 and 5 will get self-employment and Christian values training which will both make them contribute to the economy and be better law abiding citizens. He also emphasizes that Don Bosco won't leave Solomon Islands. Fr Capelli adds, the Trust will look at setting up on other islands after the Honiara Centre is up and running. Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm "Fr Ambrose" <ambrose@donbosco.org.sb> wrote: From the Archbishop Adrian Smith, Archbishop of Honiara On Tuesday 20th, Mr. Andrew Nori, the spokesperson for the MEF, and Mr. Henry Tobani, and an IFM Commander representing the Guadalcanal side in the conflict met on board an Australian barge off the coast. They were accompanied by a Seventh Day Adventist elder. In this first meeting there seemed to be a genuine desire for a ceasefire. They have planned another meeting on Sunday 25th. On Wednesday 21st the Premiers of Guadalcanal Province and Malaita Province, Mr. Alebua and Mr. Oeta met. They too called for a ceasefire. However the situation is not the same in both provinces. IFM plays the role of military wing of the Guadalcanal Province. MEF does not have the same role with Malaita Province. For that reason, the meeting did not seem to get down to real issues. At the SICA meeting cum workshop, we had an Professor Adeadefuyia, a special delegate of the Commonwealth Secretariat. Some of the stolen vehicles have been returned. Some have already been shipped to Malaita. The MEF leadership has cautioned the business sector in Honiara not to give goods to any one claiming to represent MEF. Revenue has dropped to $100,000 per day. The normal daily collection should be around $500,000. The women of Honiara with women from villages outside Honiara continue to meet at the roadblocks and have exchanges of food and store goods. They confront the militants of both sides at these roadblocks. Their constant message is they want peace. This solidarity of the women is having a positive effect. It is a clear statement that the vast majority of people want peace. The roadblock east of Honiara is now a problem for our priests and religious living east of it. The MEF on the west side of Alligator Creek are refusing permission to pass through. Our Great Jubilee Cross which is moving from Parish to Parish as a special mark of the Jubilee Year is now at Good Shepherd Parish Tenaru. How it will be taken through the MEF roadblock is an issue we still have to face. The Department of Education has sent more than half of their staff members home on unpaid leave. St Joseph's Tenaru is wondering if there will be any boarding grant to keep the school open. Plans to reopen our seminary July 10th are still fragile. The good news is the Australian Government are giving the Red Cross two and a quarter million dollars, and three-quarters of a million dollars to the Government, to purchase much needed essential medical supplies. The Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer is due in Honiara tomorrow Saturday 24th. International flights direct to Australia are still not in operation. It is possible to go via Papua New Guinea. This is a very expensive exercise. Three Parliament members for Makira Island are saying they are unwilling to come to Honiara for the proposed meeting of Parliament members because of their fears for their personal security. All these uncertainties make our life frustrating. +Adrian Smith, SM, Archbishop of Honiara Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm; www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm "Fr Ambrose" <ambrose@donbosco.org.sb> wrote: Below is an article by Dr. John Roughan Women's Fire Power Over the past few days of this week Solomon's women have displayed their fire power. They are actively upsetting male war calculations. Their presence on the front lines are making a difference in how the country's Social Unrest will be played out in the next few weeks. This time last year, in fact 21 June 1999, women organised themselves into a Reconciliation and Peace Committee. Their first act was to reign in General Rabuka's tendency to shoot from the hip. They reminded him to do his homework first before sounding off to the media. He didn't like it much but on his return from Malaita, he followed their instruction and refrained from making public statements without checking on his facts first. Later that same month, these same women were invited into the 'halls of power' at the Forum Fisheries Agency's conference hall to be part of the peace process. Unfortunately Nori's reaction to them at the time was to tell them to "Shut Up". Now of course, Andrew Nori is much more conciliatory and publicly praises their work with the militants on the front line. Last Monday morning, 12 June, the women were at it again. 70-80 mothers, sisters, aunties, even grandmas held a meeting in the YWCA Building to listen to Prof. Ade Adefuye's 45 minute talk. He shared with them how he understood the current unrest, the obstacles confronting establishment of peace and some ways of re-establishing it. Adefuy, the Commonwealth's permanent envoy to the Solomons to help resolve our current Social Unrest, made it crystal clear that the major stumbling block in current peace negotiations is the Eagles military presence, e.g. their guns, in Honiara. Women are refusing to take a back seat in bringing about peace and the Professor was forced to listen to what the women were feeling and their own thoughts about peace. They went a step further - They were determined to do something concrete about it. They intended that very day to visit militants on both sides, to bring these young boys some food and comfort but especially to talk to them as mothers, wives, sisters and aunties. They are determined to play a major part in bringing men to their senses. Some even suggested a march to the front line, pick the guns up from the militants themselves and deposit them in a safe place. However, time does not rest on their side. Already overseas ships are by-passing Honiara port which means no new food deliveries, especially rice, no fuel which will cut off electricity (no power means no water pumps work, telephone services will be cut) and already Central Hospital is running low of essential medicines. They also made it clear that they were very unhappy with the Downer, Goff and the other heavyweights recent meeting when not a single woman was present in the halls of power. Adefuye conceded that it was a mistake. But it's clear that the 9-year Bougainville experience of forgetting 'half the world', is being repeated once again in the Solomons. For instance, the Solomon Star carried 21 pictures of Militant Rambos showing off their weaponry in the three days following the coup. When women visited the front lines, shared food with the young men and spoke to the kids there, the Star could only handle three pictures of their efforts. Women are pressing that they are an essential element in establishing and maintaining peace. Solomons' men haven't fully grasped that lesson as yet but hopefully an organized women's body could play an important role. Women stress the fact that up to date, clear and especially truthful information is lacking to them and rest of the nation. The Professor's major talking point, however, is that as long as the Malaita Eagles Force patrol Honiara's streets armed with weapons (they are not doing that at present but everyone knows weapons are in easy reach) then no assistance of any kind will be forth coming from the international community. As clear as his recommendation is, the women pressed him to answer how will their security needs both from the Isatabu Freedom fighters as well as a third force: the Criminal Opportunists who are using the present unrest as a cover for their illegal activities, be met. He claims that there is a force of 200/300 police members, neither Gwale nor Malaita, who could be constituted police force and immediately take over the security of Honiara city once the MEF have returned the guns, divested themselves of their 'uniforms' and returned to their villages. If the Eagles' major reason for creating the coup was to guarantee compensation for lost properties and such, then, disarming and leaving Honiara is the essential precondition for meaningful negotiations to begin. With the Northern Ireland peace process in mind, it was suggested that a step-by-step, verifiable process would be the way to go. For instance, the IFM should pull back their people to the CDC area and once verified then the MEF would hand-in some of their guns. If that first step is negotiated successfully, then a second step, face to face meeting, would come next. At this writing, women are still going out daily to the militants area. They have contacted women from the other side of the line and are sharing food and talk with their sisters. I'm so glad the women are on our side. John Roughan Ambrose Pereira sdb Catholic Communications Solomons ambrose@donbosco.org.sb; ambrosepereira@hotmail.com http://www.catholicnet.com/solomon.htm / www.catholicnet.com/solomon/katolika.htm Fr Ambrose" <ambrose@donbosco.org.sb> wrote: Women for Peace Date: Tues, 20 Jun 2000 The Solomon Islands Women for Peace, held a Special Prayer Service at St. Barnabas Cathedral on Tuesday, 20th June, 2000. Present on the occasion was the Governor General, Sir John Eni Lapli, democratically elected members of Parliament and the Diplomatic Missions and over 500 persons all committed to the Appeal for Peace, Good governance and Democracy in Solomon islands. The Service was well conducted and broadcast on SIBC, the National Radio station. The women's appeal to the leaders was to restore law, order, peace and security to a country wherein the police force has been totally compromised and democracy has been put on hold. They stated that the civil unrest has been politically backed and not merely an act of criminality. They request foreign help to secure the police and restore law and order. Women and children, are the ones most vulnerable and they suffer the most. The stress was on the need for love, peace and reconciliation. The Governor General responded on behalf of the Government of Solomon Islands, praising and thanking the women for their efforts and was supportive of all their demands. He too was saddened by the fact that the country is on the down slide. May Christ's grace and truth bring about love, respect, care and justice for all. Article - 54 "Fr Ambrose" <ambrose@donbosco.org.sb> wrote: Subject: SI Update 17th June 2000 Date: Mon, 19 Jun 2000 15:03:50 +1100 Yesterday, Friday 16th, I went to Visale. We left Honiara at 7.40 am. I had a number of passengers, three men and three women, each with their personal baggage. I was worried what we would have to face at the MEF roadblock west of Honiara. Much to my surprise and relief, we were waved through without any questioning. There was a softening in the air. The road to Visale, since it has not been used much in the past year, is deteriorating rapidly. There has been a lot of rain. If this wet weather continues, the road will soon be unusable. In Visale, which is about 30km west of Honiara, there are very few signs of the crises we are experiencing. On the other hand, it is sad to see all the vandalized homes and property, the result of the cruel evictions carried out by the IFM in the May/June period in 1999. It came to my mind many times how blessed we are in the Solomon Islands. In spite of all the madness of all the destruction, the people will always have enough food and shelter in the rural areas. Perhaps it is because of this that they don't seem to regret the vandalism which has taken place. I attended a workshop arranged for the village church committees of the Parish. The issue of the crisis was not even on the agenda for our morning sharing. I was there from 9 to 12 noon. My fears, because of the rumours of Thursday 15th, that a retaliation had been planned for east of Honiara, were unfounded. There was no retaliation attack. Friday 16th was in fact a Public Holiday marking the Queen's birthday. Since the take-over of June 6th, it seems to have been one long public holiday ! All public offices seem lifeless. The major activity in Honiara has been people leaving for their home islands. Yesterday's news was good. It seems that arms have been returned to the armoury. There was a suspicious theft of cars from the showrooms of one of the car sales places. Perhaps this was set up by the MEF in order to their holding on to arms, supposedly helping the police to keep law and order. I wonder where is the truth in all this. A very positive move was made by an MEF leader on the roadblock west of Alligator Creek Bridge. He put down his arms and walked across the bridge to meet with Andrew Te, an important leader of the IFM militants on the east of the bridge. It seems they shared food together. The Women for Peace Group went to meet and pray with the MEFmen on the west side of Alligator Creek. They shared food with them. It seems some women crossed the bridge and told the MEF men that they would come to visit them, perhaps on Sunday 18th. These are wonderful times of healing. With positive steps at all levels of this conflict, we will make progress. SICA (Fr Arkwright represented me) had a meeting with Mr Tony (I haven't got his surname as yet). He is an Australian lawyer who has worked with the various parties in the Bougainvilleconflict. He seems to be keen to work with SICA. I understand that the Commonwealth Secretariat advisor, Professor Adeadefuya, who has been here on and off for about a year seeking for a resolution, has offered Tony the use of the facilities he has at the Commonwealth Youth Secretariat in Honiara. These are positive steps towards setting up of the SICA PEACE OFFICE. In the evening Ms. Josephine barnes, an Australian church worker with Auki Diocese, arrived here in Holy Cross. She has decided to accept the advice of the Australian High Commission to leave Solomon Islands. She noted that on Malaita there are already signs of food shortage in the stores. Rice is being sold from the trucks even before it reaches the retailers. The MEF are active in Auki and have set up roadblocks south of Auki. The purpose of these is not clear. Perhaps extortion is the main one. They may also be an attempt to limit the movement of those who are associated with what is called the Seagull Group. In Auki town the MEF drive round in stolen or commandeered vehicles. Late one evening they fired a few shots in Auki, possibly as a show of power. Bishop Loft SM, Bishop of Auki, who is in Buma Parish at this time working with the Marriage Encounter Formation Team, reports them having to ration their food carefully. Perhaps this refers to imported food only. Just before the 8pm news, four young men who had been held in the central prison on remand arrived at my house with a person I understood to be from the Prison Service. They had been released as a cost-saving exercise. They were looking for a place to stay the night. I presume they joined the families using the Holy Cross Parish Hall as a place of shelter. I had to find money for them to buy some food. I wonder where this pattern of things will end. On Thursday last I had a family asking me to go bail for their boy on remand in custody in the central prison. On further questioning I discovered the boy was a murder suspect. All kinds of warning bells started to ring in my mind. What if the relatives of the dead person are angry because of his release? Have any custom compensations been paid ? Is there any guarantee that the young man will be safe outside of prison? I felt bad about saying that I was unprepared to be involved. I wonder what a donor agency would think if I reported $500 bail to release a murder suspect. There is always that haunting question in my mind: What would the good Lord do in such a situation ? The things we find ourselves in ! At around 8,30pm a shot rang out quite near Holy Cross. I have not heard any explanation of what was happening. 4.10 pm: I had a call this afternoon from Bishop Bernard O"Grady OP, Bishop of Gizo. He spoke of all being quiet there. The Bougainville intruders are still around. There is a strong feeling it would be better if they would leave Gizo. Bishop O'Grady was full of praise for the senior Solomon Islands Police Officer in Gizo. He seems to be keeping the situation calm. The stores in Gizo are running short of food. Josephine Barnes, faithful to Auki diocese to the last moment, tried to buy some prescription medicine for Bishop Loft. The pharmacist told her that the present stocks will last only for another two weeks. Around town this morning I noticed many Chinese stores closed. There seems to be a rush on rice and other store goods. I wanted to buy a gas stove, only to find a notice on the door of the gas supplier: "Shut until further notice." We are told that petrol is still available; stocks should hold out for another three to four weeks. So many expatriates have left the country, fewer and fewer cars are on the roads. The types of food which expatriates like to buy such as canned soups, vegetables, and some fruits may not sell so quickly. I stocked up a little today just in case. It is a strange kind of feeling, so much wondering what lies ahead. A family with a son in boarding school in Australia came to see me with their problem: The father, a senior education officer, has been laid off work. They had three properties they could rent. One is rented by the Solomon Islands Government which is unable to pay its debts. The other two are in the 'no-go' area west of Honiara. Where will they get the money for their son's fourth term fees in Australia ? They have a bank draft for the third term fees, but no means of sending it to Brisbane. There must be so many families in the same situation. Even if we get peace, how can we reopen our Secondary schools