BY INDY MAEALASIA

FINANCE Minister Manasseh Sogavare has underscored the Government of National Unity and Transformation’s (GNUT) commitment to supporting Indigenous investors regarding tax exemptions. 

Responding to claims made by the opposition leader, Matthew Wale stating that the government has little consideration for Solomon islanders

Sogavare deemed the claims as “very disturbing”, and emphasized that, to date, he has never turned down any requests from Indigenous investors seeking exemptions. 

“Nothing is stopping Solomon Islanders from investing in tourism and other sectors to benefit from tax exemptions,” he added.

He pointed out that the country’s tax system includes provisions specifically designed to support Indigenous investors.

 “That’s how serious the government is. The government is ever ready to assist any Solomon Islander who is willing to take the risk to venture into these sectors,” the finance minister said.

Sogavare further labeled the claim as ‘false and misleading’, stating that such claims, at their worst, could contribute to division and hatred within the country.

“And there’s no room for it in this country if we want to progress,” he said.

The finance minister stressed the government and the ministry are obligated to “do the right thing and be properly accountable” for their actions under the processes of parliamentary democracy.