The new Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare, has announced plans to establish an independent Commission against Corruption.
The High Court in Honiara, Solomon Islands Photo: RNZI
The opposition has welcomed that development, saying it is a step in the right direction.
In a statement, the opposition leader, Jeremiah Manele, says undetected and unchecked corruption in the public sector has caused serious damage to the country for many years.
The Solomon Star reports Mr Manele as saying the initiative is overdue and the Prime Minister and his government must live up to their words and put it into action.
Mr Manele says the commission should complement the responsibilities of other government agencies.
He would like to see a review and strengthening of legislation and penal codes to combat corruption.
Earlier this month, the anti-corruption watchdog, Transparency Solomon Islands, urged Mr Sogavare to demonstrate his commitment to tackling corruption by establishing an independent body.
