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Solomon Islands PM wants telecom market open up
Nov 24, 2008 (Asia Pulse Data Source via COMTEX) --
Talks to review Our Telekoms 15-year monopoly licence has begun in the Solomon Islands with Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua telling the company his government wants the market opened up.
Solomon Star reports Dr Sikua told Our Telekom executives to prepare for competition because the Government will liberalise the industry.
We recognise Our Telekom will be a critical participant in the competitive market, Dr Sikua said. We look forward to the company competing vigorously and successfully in this new environment, the prime minister added.
Dr Sikua however, assured the telecommunications company that Government would ensure a level playing field for all and a modern regulatory structure that is suitable for the country.
Our Telekoms Chief Executive Officer Loyley Ngira refused to comment on the talks when contacted.
Our Telekom, a joint venture between Cable and Wireless of United Kingdom and the Solomon Islands Government, was granted the exclusive 15-year licence in 2003 by the then Kemakeza government.
But the Sikua Government wants the monopoly removed and is using the review clause in the agreement to do this. This review can be done after every five years.
The 15-year monopoly licence became a subject of controversy after the former communications minister who signed it, claimed he reluctantly did so, on orders from Sir Allan Kemakeza.
Many want the monopoly removed so that other competitors can enter the market. Mobile phone provider Digicel is waiting on the wings to step in if and when the market is opened up.
Deputy Prime Minister Fred Fono is part of the Governments team negotiating with Our Telekom to have the monopoly removed.
He recently said monopoly in the local telecommunications industry is denying Solomon Islanders cheap phone calls that can be available if theres competition.
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