Tourism Solomons has advised that full normal services have resumed in Honiara following violent protests in the nation’s capital.
The election of Manasseh Sogavare as the Prime Minister of Solomon Islands for the fourth time on Wednesday spurred isolated incidents of violence and vandalism in the Kukum, China Town, Burns Creek and Henderson areas, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Tourism Solomons CEO Josefa Tuamoto said the main demonstrations had taken place well away from the city’s main tourism corridors.
“Hotel and resort guests beyond being asked to stay on property during the demonstrations have not been affected at any time,” he said.
“Basically, it’s very much business as usual and it appears that everything has gone back to normal in and around Honiara.”
Tuamoto echoed comments made by the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SICCI) praising the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) for its work in managing the civil unrest.
“The approach taken by the RSIPF yesterday was for physical presence rather than aggression,” the SICCI statement read.
“Their work yesterday was one of utmost professionalism and endurance.”
Solomon Airlines said the civil unrest did cause some delays for its domestic services, with some passengers being held up while trying to reach Henderson Airfield.
An airline spokesperson said the cancellation of its Friday Brisbane-to-Honiara service is due to an unscheduled maintenance check and has nothing to do with the civil unrest.
