Dr Roughan says COI Report on April 2006 riots directs government where to play a role in

Secretary to the Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Doctor John Roughan says the Commission of Inquiry into the April 2006 riots interim report underscores where government must play a major role to ensure this kind of trouble doesn't happen again.

Dr Roughan says had there been signs of a strengthening economy, growing levels of youth employment, reduced corruption and greater trust between those elected and the people at that time, Honiara would have escaped the riots altogether.

He however says this report must not be seen as an opening wedge to get rid of RAMSI, but a plea to both government, RAMSI and the people to re-order themselves to nation building.

Dr Roughan says the Commission's findings must not be seen as a finger pointing exercise.

He says while searching out why things went wrong in April, the Commission underlines the basic reasons as high levels of poverty, significant youth unemployment, deep seated corrupt practices and distrust among political groups.

Source: SIBC