Solomon Islands casinos reopens while bars and nightclubs remain closed

Churches, bars and nightclubs in the Honiara Emergency zone will remain closed but casinos and restaurants may reopen following Covid-19 protocols.

Solomon Islands.- The government of the Solomon Islands has announced casinos and restaurants may reopen following Covid-19 protocols. The decision has caused some controversy because churches, bars, and nightclubs in the Honiara Emergency zone must remain closed.

Matthew Wale, leader of the Solomon Islands Parliamentary Opposition has criticised the decision to allow casinos to reopen while churches remain closed. 

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has also relaxed curfew hours in the Honiara Emergency zone to between 12 midnight and 6am. The government has urged people to continue to observe Covid-19 measures including wearing face masks at all times and respecting a social distancing of 2 metres.