Moffat Konofilia apologises to Manasseh Sogavare and former GNUT leaders during a reconciliation ceremony in Honiara
Mr. Moffat Konofilia formally reconciled with the Leader of the Official Opposition, Hon. Manasseh Damukana Sogavare, and representatives of the former Democratic Coalition Government for Advancement (DCGA) and the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) during a reconciliation ceremony in Honiara.
The ceremony, officiated by Father Fox Siama of the Anglican Church of Melanesia, was initiated at the personal request of Mr. Konofilia as an opportunity to apologise and restore relationships with Hon. Sogavare, former Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele, and members of the former DCGA and GNUT Governments.
The reconciliation was conducted in the spirit of Christian forgiveness, free from any political agenda.
Mr. Konofilia offered an unreserved apology to Hon. Sogavare, Hon. Manele, and members of the former governments, taking full responsibility for the disrespectful remarks he made on social media in the recent years. He admitted that he had abused his freedom of speech and expressed deep remorse for his actions.
“Today, I admit that I abused my freedom of speech. I am truly sorry from my heart,” Mr. Konofilia said.
Joining him was Mr. David Iro Leliana, who also publicly cleared his name and offered his personal apology to Hon. Sogavare and the former DCGA Government.
Both men expressed genuine remorse and a sincere commitment to restoring mutual respect and understanding.
Accepting their apologies, Hon. Sogavare embraced both men.
“You are forgiven my sons. It is my Christian duty to forgive. Who am I to hold on to grudges when our Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, freely forgave us. Forgiveness is central to our Christian faith and is the foundation for healing, reconciliation and lasting peace.”
Hon. Sogavare also acknowledged Father Fox Siama and the leadership of ACOM’s All Saints Church for facilitating the reconciliation.
“The Church is the fitting place for this reconciliation. It reminds us that genuine reconciliation begins with God and strengthens the bonds that unite our people.”
GNUT Party Leader Hon. Jimson Tanangada commended Mr. Konofilia and Mr. Leliana for their humility and willingness to accept responsibility for their actions.
“You have demonstrated leadership through humility. Reconciliation restores relationships, rebuilds trust and strengthens our unity. As a nation, we must continue to work together in advancing our shared national interests.”
Former Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele was unable to attend the ceremony due to constituency commitments but was acknowledged as one of the leaders to whom the apologies were formally extended.
PRESS RELEASE
