Statement on the Coercion of Lawmakers in The Solomon Islands by the People's Republic of China
The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) expresses deep regret over the resignation of the Honourable Daniel Waneoroa MP of the Solomon Islands from our alliance, following sustained pressure and coercion from the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
Since joining IPAC last year, Mr. Waneoroa has faced persistent and mounting coercion from the PRC, including direct contact from its embassy in Honiara, aimed at compelling him to sever ties with IPAC, even threatening that the Islands would face economic consequences if he did not comply. This intimidation culminated in the PRC presenting Mr. Waneoroa with an ultimatum last week.
This is not an isolated case. Attempts have been made to intimidate IPAC’s other Co-Chair, Hon. Peter Kenilorea Jnr, whose well founded concerns about PRC interference were criticised publicly by the Solomon Islands government, following intimidation from PRC representatives in August 2024.
The PRC’s attempts to silence and isolate foreign lawmakers are unacceptable and are indicative of a wider strategy to suppress open political dialogue in the Pacific.
Such interference by an authoritarian power into the affairs of the Solomon Islands is a blatant violation of democratic principles, and a direct challenge to Solomon Islands sovereignty.
Elected representatives must be free to engage in dialogue and collaboration without fear of retribution or intimidation from foreign governments.We stands resolute against these coercive tactics and reaffirm our commitment to supporting lawmakers worldwide who face pressure for upholding democratic values and engaging in open international discourse.
We call upon democratic governments to protect their parliamentarians from foreign interference and to uphold the principles of sovereignty and freedom of association that are fundamental to healthy democracies.
IPAC will continue to provide a platform for legislators dedicated to promoting transparency, human rights, and the rule of law in the face of Beijing’s authoritarianism.
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