Pacific Games Fallout: Solomon Islands’ High Court ruled the National Hosting Authority unlawfully bypassed public procurement safeguards for the 2023 Pacific Games, including a “Blanket Waiver” that let priority contracts skip competitive tendering; the Auditor General’s special audit also flagged serious procurement, financial control, and record-keeping failures, with findings now set to go to police for investigation. Accountability Push: Transparency Solomon Islands is demanding the Government and NHA publicly explain the audit findings, including questions over $118.29m spent without an approved budget and the valuation behind the $34m Sports Legacy House. Political Responsibility: Former PM Manasseh Sogavare accepted political responsibility for the audit shortcomings, while the Pacific Games Council says it will seek legal advice on next steps after the ruling. Sports & Community: In Fiji, former Solomon Islands captain Batram Suri has been appointed head coach of Lautoka for the Extra Battle of the Giants, while Solomon Islands futsal international Jerry Sam joins Labasa as technical director. Local Sport Inclusion: NSC and NDFSI are preparing a Play For Equity Open Day on Sept 5 at SINIS, with a focus on inclusive sport for people with disabilities, especially women and girls. Entertainment & Lifestyle: Trukai Industries signed rising rugby league star Cooper Bai as its new brand ambassador in a two-year partnership aimed at youth and healthy living. School Bazaar: Tenaru St Joseph’s Catholic National Secondary School will hold its 2026 annual bazaar on Saturday, Aug 29, featuring food, entertainment, stalls, and a raffle draw. Workplace Justice: Twenty-four former Supreme Casino security guards won a nine-year unfair dismissal case, with compensation ordered by the Trade Disputes Panel.