Newly appointed Solomon Islands Commissioner of Police Ian Vaevaso says his appointment follows a thorough process that found him cleared of any wrongdoing and fit to lead the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF).
Speaking during a welcome ceremony in Honiara, Commissioner Vaivaso addressed public concerns surrounding his appointment, stating that due process had been followed.
“My appointment has been subject to due process. I have been assessed, cleared of any wrongdoing, and found fit to serve in this role,” he said.
He emphasised that the process behind his appointment is important in upholding standards within the Force.
“That process matters. It reinforces a standard that leadership within this Force must be grounded in accountability, integrity and respect for the rule of law,” Vaevaso added.
The new police chief said his appointment is not about an individual, but about the responsibility of serving the nation.
“This appointment is not about one individual. It is about responsibility. It is about duty to our Constitution, to our communities, and to every citizen who looks to the Police Force for protection and fairness,” he said.
Commissioner Vaivaso also used the occasion to align his leadership with the Government’s vision for policing and national security, committing to support ongoing reforms and development within the RSIPF.
He acknowledged the Government’s plan to grow and strengthen the Force through structured and sustainable approaches guided by the RSIPF Expansion and Development Plan and Strategic Direction.
“I fully accept and support this direction,” he said. “As Commissioner, I commit to ensuring that all policing priorities, reforms and investments are aligned with these frameworks, so that the growth and expansion of the RSIPF strengthens national resilience, enhances public confidence and delivers effective policing services across Solomon Islands.”
Vaivaso further highlighted the importance of coordination across the broader security sector, noting that effective policing depends on strong collaboration with other agencies.
“The work of the RSIPF is closely connected to that of our colleagues in immigration, customs, biosecurity, correctional services and other government agencies,” he said.
“Our effectiveness depends not only on what we do as law enforcement agencies, but on how well we work together—sharing information, coordinating responses and maintaining a common understanding of the challenges we face.”
He stressed that such cooperation is essential and not optional.
“This coordination is central to delivering our responsibilities under the National Security Strategy,” Commissioner Vaivaso said.
Vaevaso also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening discipline, professionalism, and accountability within the RSIPF.
He emphasised that professionalism must define every officer, while integrity must guide all actions undertaken in the line of duty.
Vaevaso stressed that accountability is non-negotiable and will remain a cornerstone of his leadership.
“There is no place in this Force for corruption, abuse of authority, or misconduct,” Commissioner Vaevaso said. “Such actions damage public trust and undermine the institution we are sworn to uphold.”
He further highlighted the importance of responsible use of public resources, noting that vehicles, boats, equipment, and facilities are entrusted assets that must be properly maintained and used solely for official purposes.
“These are not just assets; they are a responsibility. When they are misused or neglected, it reflects poorly on the Force, undermines our operational capability, and erodes public confidence. That must change,” he stated.
Commissioner Vaevaso also called on supervisors to take full responsibility for maintaining standards within their commands. This includes ensuring officers are properly trained and mentored, discipline is enforced, and professional standards are upheld at all times.
“Leadership is not just about instruction—it is about conduct. Supervisors must lead by example,” he added.
The Commissioner concluded by reminding all officers of their core duty to the people of Solomon Islands, stressing that the Force must remain focused on serving the public with integrity, respect, and commitment.
“Above all, we must never lose sight of who we serve,” Commissioner Vaevaso said.
