BY NED GAGAHE

Opposition Leader Matthew Wale has sounded the alarm over escalating inflation and rising cost of living, saying government’s budget fails to adequately address these pressing issues.

During the second reading of the 2025 Appropriation Bill in Parliament yesterday, Wale pointed to troubling inflation figures and the increasing burden on ordinary Solomon Islanders.

“The latest data from the Central Bank of the Solomon Islands reveals that headline inflation accelerated to 4% in the September 2024 quarter, up from 3.2% in the same period last year.”

Wale explained that this surge in inflation, driven by both domestic and imported factors, has resulted in higher prices for basic goods and services, making daily life increasingly difficult for many citizens.

“Households are facing higher prices not only for fresh fruits and vegetables but also for electricity, fuel, transportation, and other necessities that underpin everyday survival,” Wale said.

He emphasised that while official inflation figures may seem low, they do not reflect the real-world experience of the majority of Solomon Islanders.

He further criticised the government for its failure to adequately address the cost-of-living crisis, noting that many families are now struggling to afford even basic essentials.

“$100 may only buy two items at the store now, and this is the reality for many families, especially in urban centres, but also increasingly in rural areas.

“The cost of living is simply too high for most Solomon Islanders.”

Wale also pointed out that the 2025 budget does little to tackle these cost-of-living issues, with previous budgets having failed to make a meaningful impact on inflation or the rising cost of essentials.

He called for urgent government intervention to ease the financial burden on households and provide real relief to struggling families.

“The rhetoric may be there, but the action is missing.”