Solomons govt to table dual citizenship bill this month

9:55 am on 9 July 2018
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Rick Hou

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Rick Hou Photo: RNZ Pacific/ Koroi Hawkins

The Solomon Islands' parliament has received proposed dual citizenship legislation from the government ahead of this month's sitting.

It was one of four new bills received so far.

The other proposed legislation includes an amendment to a new tax bill and legislation on government payments and the country's electoral system.

Last month during a multi-country tour the prime minister Rick Hou told Solomon Islanders living overseas that he aimed to pass the dual citizenship legislation ahead of next year's elections.

A government source said Mr Hou may also seek to pass anti-corruption legislation which would pave the way for the country's first independent commission against corruption.

The legislation, which has passed its first reading, has proved politically divisive despite widespread public support.

The sitting is set to begin on July 18th.