Pacific Media Watch

14 April 2011

SOLOMON IS: PM distances govt from leaked 'intelligence' report

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Journalist Alfred Sasako ... at the heart of the controversial leaked “secret intelligence report” affair. Photo: un.org
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HONIARA: Solomon Islands Prime Minister Danny Philip says no action has been taken against his former press secretary, Alfred Sasako, over the controversial leaked “secret intelligence report”.

Sasako, one of the most prominent journalists in the Solomon Islands, was believed to be the author of the report alleging that Australia and RAMSI were backing the Opposition in an alleged bid to oust the government.

The report came out during the political upheaval in February when several crown ministers resigned from the government.

PM Philip told Parliament yesterday no action had been taken because the government did not sanction it.

“The report was sent to us in animosity,” he said.

“We are the receiving end as well as the Opposition.”

Deputy Opposition Leader Mathew Wale, who is suing PM Philip and Sasako following the publication of the report, which alleges he had colluded with foreign agents to bring down the government, continued to throw questions at the PM.

However, the Speaker, Sir Allen Kemakeza, intervened after PM Philip, saying the matter was before the court. - Solomon Star/Pacific Media Watch

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