EXPLAINED: 12 - The Real Truth

Honiara denies wanting to control Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation, while moving to replace its board

The Solomon Islands government says it's considering replacing the board of the country's national broadcaster, but denies taking control of editorial policy, amid concerns the government-funded media outlet is losing its independence.

ABC News · Aug 8, 2022

United States, Australia will 'watch very carefully' as China-Solomons pact takes shape, says US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman

United States Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman has reassured the Pacific region the Biden administration is watching closely as the security pact between China and the Solomon Islands takes shape, warning a military base on the islands would "create security concerns for all".

ABC News · Aug 8, 2022

Japanese sailor attacked at Solomon Islands memorial service

A Japanese sailor has been attacked in the Solomon Islands during a World War II memorial service that was also attended by U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman

The Independent UK · Aug 8, 2022

Solomon Islands takes tighter control over state broadcaster

The government of the Solomon Islands is tightening its control over the nation’s state-owned broadcaster

The Independent UK · Aug 4, 2022

Top U.S. diplomat to arrive in Pacific amid battle for influence with China

A senior U.S. diplomat will travel to Samoa on Thursday on a multi-leg trip to Pacific Island countries intended to demonstrate re-engagement by the United States with a region in which China has been extending its influence.

Reuters · Aug 4, 2022

Outrage as Solomon Islands government orders vetting of stories on national broadcaster

All stories are to be approved by the government before broadcast on the SIBC, prompting grave concerns about press freedom

The Guardian - AU · Aug 3, 2022

Chinese police officers could be embedded in Solomon Islands’ force

New security pact will pave way for China to deploy navy at Australia’s doorstep

The Independent UK · Aug 2, 2022

Solomon Islands orders national broadcaster SIBC not to report content critical of government

In its latest crackdown on press freedoms, the government seizes editorial control of Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation, ordering the organisation to censor stories portraying the government in a negative light.

ABC News · Aug 2, 2022

Chinese police to give ‘management and leadership’ training to Solomon Islands officers

Senior police boss also did not rule out having Chinese police officers embedded within the force, after signing of controversial security deal

The Guardian - AU · Aug 2, 2022

Chinese company eyes Solomon Islands deep-water port

A Chinese state-owned company is negotiating to buy a forestry plantation with a deep-water port and World War II airstrip in Solomon Islands amid concerns that China wants to establish a naval foothold in the South Pacific country

The Independent UK · Aug 1, 2022