The Joint Civil Society Group (JSCG) says they are concerned that recommendations of the Police & Prisons Commission, in assessing and selecting the new Police Commissioner, may be completely disregarded due to political interest.

The group claims to have a copy of the Panel Report on Interview Results for the Position of Commissioner of Police.

The group says according to the report the Commission stated quite clearly that "the country needs a strong leader who will rebuild the police force to the highest professional standard and bring back public confidence in the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF).”

"Frank Short has a clear vision of what the RSIPF should be, possesses vast management, operational experiences, leadership qualities and communications skills required at this executive level to lead the RSIPF for the next two years," the Report allegedly states.

The report continued that "Mr. Frank Short has the capacity and the ability to bring about positive changes and clean up the present characteristics of the RSIPF of say unruly behaviour, unprofessional conduct and unethical practices which have impacted negatively on its ability to provide security and protection over the people and their properties without fear or favour.”

The report is said to have further stated that "if the Solomon Islands Government decides to localize the post of Commissioner of Police now, then the choice would have to fall on Mr. Edmond Sikua who is the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services.”

However the Panel is said to be of the view that he would be more effective, and provide strong support, to the RSIPF as Permanent Secretary.

Meanwhile the JCSG says Prime Minister Lilo must not politicize the appointment for the sake of the nation and act in accordance to the recommendations of the Police & Prisons Commission.

A source within the Prime Ministers Office says they are concerned that "such confidential documents are being leaked to such groups."

"The appointment of the Police Commissioner is at the discretion of the Prime Minister, that much is very clear."

He says the Report of the panel provides guidance for the Prime Minister, but ultimately the decision of appointment lies with the Prime Minister.

"Such State documents must be respected, and we must not seek to preempt outcomes of such processes."