The Solomon Islands threaten to ban foreign journalists

Solomon Islands has threatened to ban or deport foreign journalists for “disrespectful and degrading” reporting, raising concerns of a democratic backslide in the Pacific nation as its alliance with China deepens.

In a lengthy statement on Wednesday condemning recent media coverage, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare’s office accused Western journalists of trying to “foster regime change”.

It also accused the media of “containing China and spreading anti-Chinese sentiment” while threatening deportation.

The statement targeted an ABC report on increasing Chinese influence in the Solomon Islands and accused the Australian public broadcaster of “racial profiling”, “racism and racial stereotyping”.

“The Solomon Islands Constitution protects Solomon Islands from racial discrimination and the Solomon Islands Government will ensure that racist practices in Solomon Islands are eliminated.”

The statement then noted that Kiribati – another Beijing ally – “had deported journalists in the past”.

“ABC or any foreign media needs to understand that the way journalists are allowed to behave in other (countries) does not give them the right to operate in the same way in the Pacific.”

Sogavare has deepened ties with China’s autocratic government and proposed amending the constitution to postpone planned elections.

The four-time prime minister was ousted twice by no-confidence votes and faced street protests against his decision to shift diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing.

After widespread riots in the capital Honiara that prompted his ouster late last year, Sogavare signed a secret security pact with Beijing that – according to a leaked draft – allows him to bring in Chinese security forces to quell further unrest.

This has raised concerns in Canberra and Washington about the prospect of establishing a Chinese military base or allowing China to develop dual-use facilities.

Sogavare has repeatedly said he will not allow a military base to be built in the Solomon Islands, a point repeated in the statement.

But he said China will be allowed to build shipyards and airports – which could be useful for both civilian and military purposes.

“There will never be a Chinese military base in its country, such a deal with Beijing would undermine regional security, make the Solomon Islands an enemy and make our country and people potential targets for military strikes,” the statement said.