Pacific Games procurement fallout: Solomon Islands’ National Hosting Authority is facing fresh legal and audit pressure after a special audit found weak budget control, unlawful procurement practices, and missing records tied to the 2023 Pacific Games—while the High Court ruled the NHA’s “Blanket Waiver” approach to bypass competitive tendering was unlawful. Public finance scrutiny: Auditor-General David Teika Dennis said the NHA failed key Public Financial Management Act requirements and could not show spending was planned, affordable, justified, or value for money, with major items including the Solomon Islands Football Academy and Sports Legacy Haus. Rennell bauxite records: The Attorney General’s update on 33 bauxite shipments says key permits, payment trails, and refinery/assay records are missing or incomplete, raising new questions over royalties and oversight. Forestry rent controversy: Opposition is challenging a SBD$1.5m house-rental arrangement linked to PM Matthew Wale’s land, while the Forestry Ministry says the deal began before he took office. Tax reform consultation: The GREAT Government released a draft Formal Tax Policy Work Programme 2026–2028 for public feedback, aiming for a more transparent tax policy process. PNG–Solomons investment push: PM Wale and PNG PM Marape opened a Honiara investment conference focused on turning Melanesian ties into “bankable” partnerships, jobs, and downstream investment. Agriculture and livestock support: Central Makira received PRC farming tools for cocoa and coconut farmers, while MALD ran livestock disease awareness and surveillance in Malaita. Education infrastructure: Australia and New Zealand-backed science lab classrooms were handed over in Western Province to boost practical learning.