Premier Sagupari denies $5 million deal to oust previous CIP executive

By Alfred Pagepitu

The Premier of Central Islands Province, Hon. Kenneth Sagupari, has denied allegations that Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPAs) were promised $5 million each to support a change in provincial leadership.

His response comes after a social media post on the Central Province Ngella Forum claiming that former Premier and MPA for Ward 8, Hon. Polycarp Galaigu, expressed regret over his role in removing the former Salini-led government.

The post alleged that MPAs were promised $5 million each after helping to install the new executive.

It also claimed that Galaigu in his personal view on social media admitted things did not go as expected, and that proper procedures were not followed during the transition.

In an interview yesterday, Premier Sagupari clarified that he had no knowledge of such a financial promise, saying the allegations were baseless.

“I have never signed any agreement for five million or whatever before the formation of the government,” Sagupari stated.

He highlighted that the government was formed in good faith and with the long-term interest of the people of Central Islands Province in mind.

“We formed this government not because of any outside force. We formed it based on what is good for our people now and into the future,” he said.

Premier Sagupari, expressed concern over misinformation spreading on social media, adding that the assembly should remain focused on development and stability.

“The post might have come from someone else or been misinterpreted. As Premier, I can assure you no such money promise was ever made or signed.”

He called on the public to remain calm and avoid speculation.

“We are moving forward with clear goals. We ask our people to trust the process and support the work of their government.”

The leadership shake-up in Central Islands Province occurred in late June 2025 when a motion of no confidence was successfully passed against the then-Premier Michael Salini.

The Assembly elected Sagupari as the new Premier. However, shortly after the vote, allegations of financial influence surfaced online.

The latest social media post quoted Hon. Galaigu claimed to have made a mistake and regretted supporting the motion.

Premier Sagupari, however, dismissed the claims as misleading and stressed that the new administration is focused on transparency, development, and restoring public trust.

“Any such accusation should be backed by evidence. We’re here to work, not to engage in the politics of deception,” he said.

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