8 Nov 2002

Solomon islands governor general says the country must move forward

12:03 pm on 8 November 2002

The governor-general of Solomon Islands says those who disturbed the peace of the country must be humble enough to face justice.

Speaking at the launch of the United Nations Development Programme country report in Honiara, Father Sir John Ini Lapli said Solomon Islands needs to move forward by taking responsibility for its past.

He says the people of Solomon Islands want a change of heart from those who were responsible for the near collapse of the national unity, adding that the majority of people are ready to forgive.

"It would be best if regret and public repentance is voluntary. Even voluntary surrender by perpetrators to the police. It would be good for national reconciliation and forgiving and repenting."