24 Oct 2013

Solomons watchdog praises Temotu premier for rejecting alleged bribe

2:44 pm on 24 October 2013

Transparency Solomon Islands is praising Temotu's premier for taking a stand against bribery in the logging industry, saying more politicans should follow suit.

The group says it's alleged a Malaysian logger handed Father Charles Brown Beu an envelope with 3,000 Solomon Islands dollars in cash and a letter from the Ministry of Forestry.

It says Father Charles went to the media to expose the practice instead of accepting the money.

The group's executive officer, Daniel Fenua, says the premier's actions should encourage other public officials to exercise their power for good rather than personal gain.

Mr Fenua says it's time for authorities to investigate what happened and criminal charges should follow if a bribe was paid.

He also says the Ministry of Forestry should explain its involvement and why it allegedly issued a letter for the company.