20 Jun 2007

Political leaders in Solomon Islands face fines for not declaring financial state

2:17 pm on 20 June 2007

The Leadership Code Commission in Solomon Islands says politicians will face tough penalties if they don't submit their financial statements to the commission.

The commission's chairman Emmanuel Kouhata says all elected leaders are required by law to do so, under the Leadership Code Act.

He says that if they have any issues filling out the form they should contact the commission immediately.

Otherwise, Mr Kouhata says those who don't, will be fined 14 US dollars and may be charged for misconduct in office, as there are no exceptions.

"The leaders should not take it lightly or ignore our instructions to return or submit their financial returns as its a requirement by law. They have to comply with those requirments."

Presently 9 councillors at the Honiara City Council have been given 7 days and 16 members of the Guadalcanal Provincial Assembly, have 14 days to comply.