To'abaita rural leader expresses concern over rise in crime

A Malaita leader has expressed concern over the increasing crime rate related to the consumption of the locally brewed alcohol, "kwaso".

Vice-Chairman of the To'abaita Council of Chiefs in North Malaita Constituency, David Leliana, says the consumption of kwaso had resulted in the increase in criminal activities both in the rural areas and Honiara.

He says the increase in criminal activities such as the recent spate of stabbing in Honiara is the result of consumption of alcohol.

Mr Leliana says the To'abaita Council of Chiefs acknowledge the efforts community leaders and other law enforcing authorities in trying to deal with criminal activities.

However, he says these efforts have not been successful.

Mr Leliana says the To'abaita Council of Chiefs suggests that government come up with a law to stop alcohol in the country.

"Our view is that the 50 members of Parliament should come up with a law to ban alcohol. We call Solomon Islands as a Christian nation, but the consumption of alcohol is thriving. Human rights, children's right and women's right are affecting our society. We have ignored our cultural heritage, a system that God had given to our ancestors."

Source: SIBC