12 Sep 2012

Planned demonstrations against Solomon Islands govt cancelled

10:29 am on 12 September 2012

A planned demonstration against the government by the Malaita Masina Forum group has been cancelled by the Solomon Islands Police Commissioner.

Chairman of the Masina Forum, Charles Dausabea, received an email advising his group that the planned demonstration on Thursday will not be permitted.

He says it is disappointing as they had planned the demonstration and the Commissioner had already given his approval in principle.

Mr Dausabea says the group only wants to demonstrate to deliver a petition to the Prime Minister on their grievances with government.

He says Solomon Islanders have the right to express their opinions to their leaders about any subject or to demonstrate peacefully.

The government and security officials reportedly consider a demonstration too risky coming a few days before the visit of Prince William.