PEC explains 6% MP salary increase, citing constitutional independence, consultations and delayed COLA adjustments
Honiara, 23 July 2026: The Chairman of the Parliamentary Entitlements Commission (PEC), Mr Nigel Maezama, yesterday clarified the Commission’s recent decision to approve a 6 per cent salary adjustment for Members of Parliament.
Speaking at a press conference at the PEC Office on 22 July 2026, Mr Maezama said the decision was made independently and in accordance with the Commission’s constitutional mandate.
“The Commission does not make decisions arbitrarily or at the direction of any individual or authority,” Mr Maezama said. “The Constitution requires us to carry out these responsibilities through the prescribed consultation process.”
Mr Maezama explained that the PEC is established under section 69A of the Constitution. Under section 69B, the Commission is mandated to independently consider and determine the salaries, allowances and benefits of Members of Parliament.
Mr Maezama assumed office as Chairman on 14 November 2025. Other Commission members are Mr Lawrence Hunumeme, Ms Nanette Tutua, the Minister of Finance, and the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee.
He said the Commission experienced significant delays from late 2023 due to the prolonged illness and passing of the former Chairman on 20 February 2025. With no provision in the Parliamentary Entitlements Regulations for an acting Chairman, the Commission was unable to meet or make decisions on pending entitlement reviews, resulting in a backlog.
In line with section 69B, the Commission undertook wide consultations before finalising the 2026 amendments to the Parliamentary Entitlements Regulations.
Stakeholders consulted included the Central Bank of Solomon Islands, the Ministry of Finance and Treasury, the Budget Division, the Ministry of Public Service, the Parliamentary House Committee, the Attorney General’s Chambers, the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, and the Public Service Commission.
Mr Maezama noted that during earlier consultations in 2023, the Ministry of Public Service advised that a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for public servants would be implemented in June 2024. The Commission therefore deferred any MP adjustment to align with that process.
The Commission approved a 6 per cent adjustment for 2024 and 2025. Mr Maezama said this addresses the delayed COLA that had accumulated because the Commission was unable to function during those years, while public servants had already received their COLA for the same period.
“The PEC understands the public’s interest in this matter and respects the views expressed by our citizens,” Mr Maezama said.
“Our commitment as a Commission is to carry out our mandate independently, transparently and responsibly in accordance with the Constitution.”
SOURCE:// GCU PRESS RELEASE
