The nation looks to welcoming a new prime minister tomorrow. The three candidates are Peter Shanel Agovaka (MP for Central Guadalcanal), Matthew Wale (MP for Auki Langalanga) and Manasseh Maelanga (MP for East Malaita). Island Sun interviewed members of public in Gizo, Western province, yesterday to gauge their views. Mi Tingim with Ben Bilua

Kachel Rence – Gizo
Community Elder
While I respect all the leaders contesting the Prime Minister’s position, Matthew Wale remains my preferred choice for the post. He has consistently been vocal on national issues and has shown strong leadership qualities over the years. His willingness to speak out on matters affecting the country suggests that he has a clear vision and meaningful plans for the future of Solomon Islands. I believe his experience, commitment, and determination to address key challenges facing the nation make him a suitable candidate to lead the country forward.

Merilyn Hutton – Nusabaruku
Market Vendor
While I respect all leaders contesting the Prime Minister’s position, Matthew Wale remains my preferred choice. I see him as an active and experienced leader who has spent many years in politics. I was particularly impressed by his speech during his visit to Gizo, where he shared his vision on some of the key issues affecting people across the country. His views and commitment to addressing national challenges gave me confidence that he has the leadership qualities needed to guide the nation forward.

Mary Dakei – Gizo
Market Vendor
My choice for the Prime Minister’s position is Mathew Wale. I believe he is one of the best politicians our country has produced. Over the years, he has remained committed and vocal on important national issues affecting the people. His dedication and long-standing effort to lead the country demonstrate his passion for serving the nation. I admire his persistence, leadership qualities, and vision for a better Solomon Islands. For these reasons, I strongly believe Mathew Wale is capable of leading the country forward as Prime Minister.

James Vevo – Gizo
Taxi Driver
While many capable leaders are contesting the Prime Minister’s position, I believe Mathew Wale deserves a chance to lead the country. He has spent many years in the opposition, consistently speaking out on national issues and holding governments accountable. I admire his contributions and testimonies in Parliament, which reflect courage, leadership, and concern for the people. His experience in politics and commitment to addressing important issues give me confidence that he can become a good Prime Minister who will work in the best interests of Solomon Islands and its future development.

John Wisely – Gizo
Market Vendor
The Prime Minister’s election, in my view, is a waste of time. Our leaders should have avoided the Motion of No Confidence and allowed Jeremiah Manele to complete his term as Prime Minister. So far, Manele has shown positive leadership, and I see no strong reason for a change in government at this stage. This situation appears to be driven more by the hunger for power than by the interests of the people. Looking at the list of nominees, I have mixed feelings. Two candidates have already served as acting Prime Minister, while one has remained in the opposition for many years. Therefore, I believe Mathew Wale is the best choice for Prime Minister.

Loretta Nasala – Gizo
Market Staff
It is difficult to choose among the nominees. While I respect them as leaders of our country, I still have doubts and lack confidence in their leadership. At this stage, I remain undecided and prefer to sit on the fence rather than support one candidate over another. I believe the position of Prime Minister is very important, and the country needs a leader who can truly address the challenges facing our people. For now, I will continue to observe the situation carefully before making any judgment or decision on who deserves my support.

Trevino West – Nusatupe
Fisherman
While I respect all the leaders contesting for the Prime Minister’s position, I believe it is time to give Mathew Wale a chance. He has spent many years trying to lead the country, and his persistence shows commitment and determination. Perhaps he can bring fresh ideas and new approaches that could help drive national development. I also hope his leadership could create more employment opportunities and improve the future for our young people. At this stage, many citizens want to see practical solutions to the challenges facing the country, especially in areas affecting youth and economic growth.

Neke Alenia – Gizo
Fisherman
The Motion of No Confidence was, in my view, a waste of time. Our leaders should have allowed Jeremiah Manele to complete his term as Prime Minister. I was surprised to see the once solid 28-member coalition break apart after spending months together in camp. To me, the movement of leaders leaving and later returning reflects a strong desire for power and leadership positions. Because of this, I do not strongly support any particular candidate in the Prime Minister’s election. Instead, I simply hope that whoever emerges victorious will lead the country wisely, work in the best interests of the people, and bring stability and progress to the nation.

Cracinda Puze – Paelonge village
Market Vendor
My choice is between Mathew Wale and Peter Shanel. Both leaders have the potential to lead the country and contribute positively to national development. They each bring different experiences and leadership qualities that could benefit the people of Solomon Islands. Choosing between them is not easy, as both have shown commitment to serving the nation. At the end of the day, I hope whoever becomes Prime Minister will work in the best interest of the country and create opportunities that improve the lives of our people.

Tony Nonga – Gizo
Market Vendor
The recent political changes and the Prime Minister’s election are, in my view, a waste of time. With only one and a half years remaining before the next national election, it will be difficult for any new government to introduce and fully implement new policies. There is simply not enough time to achieve meaningful progress before the country heads back to the polls. I strongly believe that Jeremiah Manele should have been given the opportunity to complete his term as Prime Minister. However, if I were to choose among the candidates, my preference would be Mathew Wale.
Photos: Ben Bilua
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